NAIROBI, Kenya – It’s been 365 days, but for the families, the wounds still feel fresh. On April 17, 2025, the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) gathered at Moi Air Base in Nairobi to mark a somber anniversary. Ten lives were lost in a military helicopter crash in Sindar, Elgeyo Marakwet.
And now, one year later, the country paused to remember not just the crash, but the courage that defined those on board.
Leading the tribute was the late General Francis Ogolla, former Chief of Defence Forces. His name echoed through the ceremony—spoken with reverence and sorrow.
He wasn’t just a top brass. He was a leader, a mentor, and by many accounts, a man of deep conviction. Alongside him, nine other officers were honored: Brig Swalleh Saidi, Col Duncan Keitany, Lt Col David Sawe, Maj George Magondu, Capt Mohammed Sora, Capt Hillary Litali, Senior Sgt John Mureithi, Sgt Cliphonce Omondi, and Sgt Rose Nyawira.
Family members, friends, and colleagues filled the base chapel with quiet strength. The service, interdenominational and deeply spiritual, reminded the bereaved that grief does not erase love. And neither does time.
Charles Magondu, father of the late Maj George Magondu, spoke with raw honesty and grace. He thanked the KDF for standing by them, offering more than just condolences—offering presence. His words, filled with gratitude and grief, underscored the human cost of service.
Colonel Kasaine Ole Kuruta, one of the only two survivors from the crash, shared a reflection that gripped the room. He spoke not just of survival but of purpose. “I have learned to treasure time with loved ones,” he said. “I grieve in peace and choose to live each day in memory of those who couldn’t.”
It was a reminder that healing isn’t linear. But it’s possible—with support, faith, and resilience.
Commander of the Kenya Air Force, Maj Gen Fatuma Ahmed, framed the fallen as not only heroes but architects of a stronger force. “They served with distinction,” she said. And she was right. Because even in tragedy, the KDF showed unity—a rare, unshakable kind that holds firm under pressure.
General Charles Kahariri, the current Chief of Defence Forces, took a direct tone. He praised the courage of the fallen and honored the strength of the families.
But he also called out what he called “uninformed commentary” often amplified on social media. “Pray for those who speak without compassion,” he said. “Only God can soften such hearts.”
The service was attended by top military brass including Lieutenant General John Omenda, Lt Gen David Tarus of the Kenya Army, Maj Gen Paul Otieno of the Navy, and several other senior officers. It was unity in uniform. Unity in loss.
The cause of the crash, according to a report by the Ministry of Defence, was clear: engine malfunction. Specifically, a compressor stall in the Huey Helicopter KAF 1501. The board found the engine suffered complete power loss.
The experienced crew tried to glide it to a safe landing. But the odds weren’t in their favor. A loud bang. Overheated readings. A fatal left yaw. Then impact.
It’s technical, yes. But also deeply human. Because behind every reading and every error code, there were lives.
As Kenya continues to honor its military personnel, this service was more than just protocol. It was personal. It was painful. And above all, it was powerful.
