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President William Ruto will today lead the 60th-anniversary celebrations of the Kenya Navy, marking six decades of dedicated service to the nation. The event will take place at the Mtongwe Naval Base in Mombasa.
Founded on December 12, 1964, one year after Kenya’s independence, the Kenya Navy has played a vital role in protecting the country’s maritime territorial integrity. The anniversary will celebrate the Navy’s achievements and its significant contributions to national defense and maritime security.
The celebrations will feature military displays by officers, and outstanding officers will be recognized for their exemplary service. As one of the three branches of the Kenya Defense Forces (KDF), the Kenya Navy continues to play a critical role in the nation’s security.
President Ruto will also emphasize the government’s commitment to strengthening the capabilities of the KDF in maintaining peace and stability within Kenya’s territorial waters. A major achievement of the Kenya Navy includes the capture of the port city of Kismayu in Somalia during Operation Linda Nchi in 2012, which played a pivotal role in combating terrorism and piracy in the region. The operation involved seven ships, including KNS Nyayo, KNS Umoja, KNS Galana, KNS Shujaa, and KNS Jasiri, and led to the liberation of Kismayu from al-Shabaab militants with minimal resistance.
Currently commanded by Major General Paul Otieno, the Kenya Navy has also been involved in several community initiatives, including tree planting and charitable activities, leading up to today’s anniversary celebrations.
Dj Vnyash
