Ruto calls on KDF cadets to be strategic in countering threats

President William Ruto has called on the newly commissioned military cadets to be strategic in their roles, as they will be relied upon to safeguard the country against its current threats.

Speaking while presiding over their commissioning parade at the Kenya Military Academy in Lanet on Friday, the President said the multiplicity, scale, and fluid nature of security challenges in today's globalised and interconnected world demands a robust strategic mindset capable of constantly keeping risk at bay through innovative and proactive approaches.

"Kenya in particular grapples with a range of threats, including terrorism, transnational organised crime, cybersecurity threats, the security-related impacts of climate change, banditry, and cattle rustling. Without exception, these challenges pose grave threats to the safety and security of our citizens and have the potential to undermine our economic development and national stability."

Kenyan graduates who will serve in the three services; Kenya army, Navy and Air Force were reminded of the nobility of their chosen profession and the huge responsibility that lies ahead.

"The journey of becoming a military officer is not easy. It is fraught with challenges that only the very best can overcome. Each of you standing before us today has endured thorough training that tested your limits and pushed you beyond what you thought possible."

"By excelling in gruelling military exercises and meticulous work, you have demonstrated physical and psychological resilience, discipline, and focus, as well as a strong devotion to your chosen path. Today, you emerge stronger and ready to take up your responsibilities. Congratulations," said President Ruto.

He also used the occasion to pay tribute to the late Chief of Defence Forces General Francis Ogolla and other officers who perished after their military chopper crashed on April 18 this year.

"As we participate in this auspicious occasion and witness the commissioning parade, we are reminded of the sacrifices these gallant soldiers made for Kenya. We are summoned to reflect on the full implications of a soldier's life, especially the demands they must rise to beyond the call of duty. May their legacy inspire and guide you as you commence your journey as commissioned officers. We will never forget their sacrifice; their memory will live in our hearts. May God continue to rest their souls in eternal peace," he said.

Cadets graduate from the Kenya Military Academy in Lanet, Nakuru, on Friday, May 31, 2024. (Photo: PCS)

The event saw Kenya's General Service Officer cadets graduate with a bachelor's degree in military science and specialists master their various courses.

Officers from Burundi, Rwanda, Uganda, and Tanzania who were trained alongside the Kenyan forces also graduated at the event, which marked the culmination of up to three years of intense training.

Senior Under Officer (SUO) Hillary Kipkut emerged as the best officer cadet in leadership and command, while parade adjutant Mercy Katunge Muli was the best overall in order of merit and academic studies.

The best Allied Officer Cadet in order of merit and the winner of the commandant's shield was Junior Under Officer Modeste Havugimana from the Rwanda Defence Forces (RDF).

Also in attendance were officers from allied countries represented by cadets in different cohorts, including Egypt, Burkina Faso, Malawi, Mozambique, and Sierra Leone within the academy, who are pursuing skills and knowledge necessary for their roles as leaders and commanders of the 21^st century.

"The diversity of the cadets enrolled in this academy affirms my confidence in our bonds and our collective capacity to respond effectively to present, emerging, regional, and global security challenges," said Kenya's commander-in-chief.

The officers will play key roles as future leaders within their various services and will be responsible for protecting the country's sovereignty, anticipating threats, and preventing them through targeted interventions.

"The point is that your ability to innovate and adapt will become increasingly critical in safeguarding our nation's security. I, therefore, encourage you to maintain a culture of scholarship and evidence-based decision-making, enhancing clarity and focus to keep pace with the complex contemporary security landscape facing our nation and the world," the President directed.

After the ceremony, the president took a few minutes to talk and pray for the new officers, asking for divine protection and courage in their service.

The Kenya Military Academy offers basic and foundational military officer training for the cadets of Kenya and regionally allied countries.

It is currently in transition into the National Defence University and will offer cadets a Bachelor of Science degree in Defence and Security Studies, with the debut cadet cohorts set to commission next year.