Ruto Announces Major KDF Leadership Changes, Promotes Senior Officers

President William Ruto has announced a series of leadership changes, promotions and appointments within the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), affecting senior officers across the Kenya Army, Kenya Air Force and Defence Headquarters.

In a statement dated Friday, June 5, 2026, the Ministry of Defence said the changes were made by the President in his capacity as Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Forces following recommendations by the Defence Council.

“His Excellency Hon Dr William Samoei Ruto, C.G.H, President of the Republic of Kenya, and Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Forces, upon recommendation of the Defence Council, has today appointed Major General John Maiso Nkoimo as the Deputy Commander, Kenya Army,” the notice stated.

KDF Gets New Army and Air Force Deputies After Ruto Appointments

The President also appointed Brigadier Mohamud Salah Farah as the Deputy Air Force Commander. Farah previously served as the Base Commander at Laikipia Air Base.

Among the promotions announced, Brigadier William Kamoiro was elevated to the rank of Major General and appointed General Officer Commanding Central Command.

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Brigadier Peter Kipketer Limo was also promoted to Major General and appointed Assistant Chief of Defence Forces in charge of Personnel and Logistics at the Defence Headquarters.

Limo replaces Major General Edward Rugendo, who has been appointed Managing Director of the Defence Forces Welfare Services. Before his latest appointment, Limo served in the same organisation as Managing Director.

The President also extended the service of Kenya Navy Commander Major General Paul Owuor Otieno by one year, following advice from the Defence Council chaired by Defence Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya.

Other Appointments Made Within the Kenya Defence Forces

Several other officers also received promotions and new assignments across the Kenya Army and Kenya Air Force.

In the Kenya Army, Brigadier (Dr) Francis Njoroge Kuria has been promoted to the rank of Major General and appointed Director of Medical Services.

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Colonel Mark Joseph Awala has been promoted to Brigadier and appointed Chief of Operations at Kenya Army Headquarters, while Colonel Makonani Balata has also been elevated to Brigadier and named Commander of Langata Garrison. Colonel Asma Diramo Kofa has similarly been promoted to Brigadier and appointed Chief of Provost at the Directorate of Oversight, Compliance and Accountability.

In other appointments, Colonel Peter Karigih Kariuki has been promoted to Brigadier and named College Secretary at the National Defence College.

Colonel Benedetta Margaret Kikechi has also been promoted to Brigadier and appointed Chief of Research and Development at the Defence National Security Industries.

In the Kenya Air Force, Lieutenant Colonel Bernadette Awar Eyanae has been promoted to Colonel and appointed Colonel Plans and Programs at the International Peace Support Training Centre.

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General Kahariri during a visit to KDF soldiers. PHOTO/Ministry of Defence