As the year 2019 comes to closure, Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) perhaps, had one of the most eventful periods, in the history of the country.
With the troops managing to repel a deadly Al-Shabaab attack on Tuesday in Somalia, it was one of perhaps significant gain this year.
Launching of Modika barracks in Garissa by President Uhuru Kenyatta marked one of KDF's major achievement.
The Modika Barracks, located in Garissa town, is the home of the 6th Brigade, which includes the 17 Kenya Rifles Battalion, a relatively young infantry unit that received its presidential and regimental colours during the 2018 Jamhuri Day celebrations.
The barracks will be important for troops operating in Somalia, which would be using them for emergency services.
“The barracks will host three army fighting units and three support sub-units and is part of a programme to modernise and improve the capability of the KDF,” State House announced.
About two months before the inauguration of Modika Barracks, Chief of Defence Forces General Samson Mwathethe, in a historic event, led KDF troops in uncovering the scars of war from the Somalia operation during KDF Day held on October 14.
The 69 newly-opened welfare centres spread across KDF barracks and the Kenya Defence Forces Rehabilitation Centre located at the Lang’ata Barracks, the home of the highest number of affected soldiers from the Somali incursion, are the brainchild of Gen Mwathethe, who is keen to leave a legacy as the military commander who improved the welfare of his troops.
“The welfare centres aim to address the challenges faced by serving and retired service personnel, those with disabilities, families and dependants of deceased. They are the point of contact and provide cross-service support,” Gen Mwathethe said during the KDF Day.
The welfares are important for soldiers family especially for those who lose lives during wars or get injured.
Welfare operation is another important achievement for General Samson Mwathethe, who is set to exit service in 2020 May.
During Mashujaa Day, the Kenya Navy also participated in the country’s first sail-past, a function through which its seamen highlighted the increasing modernisation of the Kenya Navy and other key investments in the country’s maritime economy.
KDF also launched Soldiers' Legacy, a book which gives fine details on the history and operation of Kenya Army, yet another achievement for the defence forces.
Also, the KDF team for the first time allowed civilians to attend KDF Day which is usually held in October 14th every year. The ceremony was previously accessed by soldiers alone.