Chief of Defence Forces General Francis Omondi Ogolla tragically passed away on Thursday, April 18, 2024 after a Kenya Air Force Huey Helicopter he was aboard - crashed and burst into flames at the Kaben-Cheptulel border between Elgeyo Marakwet and West Pokot counties.

At the time of death, General Ogolla was the highest ranking military man in the country, a role he assumed on April 23, 2023 - succeeding retired General Robert Kibochi.

Only a year into his term, the deceased became the shortest serving Chief of Defence Forces.

As the country mourns the fallen serviceman, described by members of the public and leaders alike as a patriot who served his country diligently - Now.co.ke profiles the career achievements of the late General Ogolla.

Background & Education

General Ogolla was born on 12 February 1962 in Siaya County.

The late CDF boasted a decorated academic resumé which includes a Diploma in International Studies and Military Science from Egerton University, a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, Armed Conflict, and Peace Studies (First Class Honours) and a Master of Arts degree in International Studies from the University of Nairobi. 

He also attended the École Militaire de Paris and the National Defence College of Kenya.

Career

He was enlisted into the Kenya Defence Forces as an Officer Cadet on 02 May 1984 and commissioned as a second lieutenant on 03 May 1985, upon which he was posted to Moi Air Base, where he later trained as a pilot. 

During his career in the Kenya Defence Forces, General Ogolla held several Command, Staff and Instructional appointments. In command, he was the Commanding Officer Laikipia Air Base Tactical Flight Wing in 2007 and also Base Commander Laikipa Air Base from 2008 to 2014.

Upon promotion to Brigadier on 10 April 2012, he was appointed the Deputy Air Force Commander and later on promoted to Major General on 13 July 2018 and appointed Commander Kenya Air Force.

On 23 July 2021 he was also promoted to the rank of Lieutenant General and appointed the Vice Chief of the Defence Forces, a position he held till April 23, 2023 when he was promoted to the rank of General and appointed Chief of the Defence Forces. 

Awards

Due to his dedication to service the late General Francis Omondi Ogolla was awarded several medals among them; Moran of the Golden Heart (MGH), Elder of the Burning Spars, Head of State Commendation among others.

Family

General Francis Omondi Ogolla leaves behind a widow, Mrs. Aileen Kathambi Ogolla and two children; Lorna Achieng' Omondi and Joel Rabuku Omondi Ogolla.

He also leaves behind one daughter-in-law; Muthoni Njenga Mwaura and a grandson by the name Taji Mbarara.