Sunday October 14, 2018
President
Uhuru Kenyatta, Defence CS Raychelle Omamo, and KDF chief Samson
Mwathethe during the 7th KDF Day celebrations in Nakuru on Sunday,
October 14, 2018. /PSCU
President Uhuru Kenyatta on
Saturday affirmed that Kenyan soldiers will maintain their presence in
Somalia until the troubled country achieves peace, stability, and
security.
The President said Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) working
under AMISOM will not be withdrawn until all terror networks are fully
neutralised.
"We went to Somalia in 2011. We shall continue our
presence in the country until the restoration of full security in
Somalia," the president said.
The Head of State spoke during the 7th annual KDF Day at Kenyatta Barracks in Gilgil, Nakuru county on Sunday.KDF
Day is marked to commemorate Kenya’s fallen heroes and heroines who
died while defending and protecting the sovereignty, territorial
integrity, peace and freedom of the country.
The
president said Kenyans are proud and appreciative of the proactive role
played by KDF in security operations and peace initiatives in the region
especially in the fight against terrorism, a challenge that continues
to create fear and despondency among populations.
"Kenyans are
proud of their soldiers and the professional, patriotic and disciplined
manner they have handled themselves," the Head of State said.
The
President said Kenya cannot let down its guard until the complex
transnational terror networks operating in the Horn of Africa region are
completely removed.
Uhuru said there is need to ensure that
Kenyan borders remain secure, a role the KDF has prayed with pride,
courage, and determination.
He said Kenya’s continued contribution
of troops for peace missions was indicative of the government’s
commitment to peace and security in the region and beyond.
The
president called on soldiers to rededicate themselves to protect the
sanctity of human life, remain united and maintain their high degree of
integrity and accountability.
He encouraged KDF to continue cooperating with other agencies in times of disasters and emergencies.
Uhuru acknowledged the role of KDF in supporting the police force whenever a need arises.
During
the ceremony, wives of gallant soldiers who had paid the ultimate prize
while in the line of duty were presented with certificates and mementos
in recognition of their brave spouses.
Also presented with the
mementos and certificates of appreciation were serving soldiers
celebrated for their heroic roles in various undertakings of the
military including rescue missions, sabotaging enemy operations, and
sports among other successes.
Others who spoke at the colorful
ceremony were Cabinet Secretaries Ambassador Raychelle Omamo (Defence),
Monica Juma (Foreign Affairs and International Trade), Chief of Defence
Forces General Samson Mwathethe and retired General Ken Opande.
Earlier,
President Uhuru Kenyatta opened a new Sh3.8 billion Kenya Defence
Forces food agro-processing factory within the military barracks.
The
new processor is the latest addition to the expanding Kenya Ordinances
Factories Corporation and will be processing 1000 tonnes of food at its
peak.
Currently, it is processing 90 tonnes of supplies per day.
Most of these are from food crop farmers in Nakuru, Nyandarua, Narok,
Elgeyo Marakwet and Nyeri.
Uhuru lauded the KDF for setting the
pace in the food value addition sector, a key area with huge potential
to create wealth and millions of jobs, a key component of his
administration's Big 4 Agenda.
"I am happy to note that the KDF is
actively supporting the Big 4 vision. This initiative by KDF addresses
the pillars of food security and manufacturing."
Host governor Lee Kinyanjui of Nakuru and Francis Kimemia of the neighbouring Nyandarua county were also present.