In a hurry? Here’s a quick summary…
- General Francis Ogolla, a respected leader of the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), will be laid to rest today with military honors in Mor Village, Siaya County, following a funeral service at Obama K’Ogello Primary School.
- General Ogolla, who tragically died in a helicopter crash on April 18 alongside nine other military officers, had a distinguished military career and is remembered for his dedication to service and numerous awards.
General Francis Ogolla, a respected figure who led the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) with integrity, is set to be laid to rest today.
His family, President William Ruto, dignitaries, and mourners have gathered at Obama K’Ogello Primary School in Ngi’ya Village for a burial service. From there, they will proceed to Mor Village for the General’s interment.
To honor the fallen general, high-level security measures have been implemented.
All military formations, including local and foreign forces and their commanders, are present. Formal military honors will be given by personnel from the Army, Air Force, and Navy.
Read Also:
Why General Francis Ogolla Will Not Be Buried In A Coffin
Citizen TV Journalist Stephen Letoo Weds
Ruto Reveals Three Conditions CDF Ogolla Set For Him After 2022 Bomas Saga
The funeral service will include opening prayers, welcoming remarks, and the reading of the eulogy.
Tributes will be paid by General Ogolla’s family, friends, the church, the military, and the government.
The service will continue with Bible readings, a sermon, family prayers, and a vote of thanks before proceeding to the burial site.
Secretary State Functions Mike Gitonga has stated that only designated individuals will attend the General’s burial at his homestead.
He urged attendees to respect the family’s request to remain at the primary school, where the ceremony will be live-streamed.
The Life and Times of General Ogolla
General Ogolla tragically died in a helicopter crash on April 18, alongside nine other military officers.
He was the first KDF leader to pass away while in office. A total of 12 officers were on board the ill-fated helicopter.
General Ogolla had a distinguished career in the military. Born on February 12, 1962, in Siaya County, he joined the KDF as an Officer Cadet on May 2, 1984.
He later became a second lieutenant on May 3, 1985, and was posted to Moi Air Base, where he trained as a pilot.
Throughout his career, General Ogolla held several important positions, including Commanding Officer of Laikipia Air Base Tactical Flight Wing and Base Commander at Laikipia Air Base.
He was later promoted to Brigadier in 2012 and subsequently became Deputy Air Force Commander.
His journey in the KDF saw him rise to the rank of Major General, then Lieutenant General, and eventually General, when he became Chief of the Defence Forces in 2023.
Read Also:
Nviiri The Storyteller Hires Girlfriend as Manager After Leaving Sol Generation
General Ogolla Grieved Soldiers’ Deaths as He Would His Own Children – His Son Joel Reveals
General Ogolla’s dedication to service earned him numerous honors, such as the Moran of the Golden Heart (MGH) and the Elder of the Burning Spear, among others.
He is survived by his widow, Mrs. Aileen Kathambi Ogolla, two children, Lorna Achieng’ Omondi and Joel Rabuku Omondi Ogolla, a daughter-in-law, Muthoni Njenga Mwaura, and one grandson.
Pingback: Wanjigi Pledges to Defend Community in Ndabibi Land Dispute - Kenyan Whispers