MOMBASA, Kenya – The Kenya Navy on Saturday marked 61 years of service with a colourful display of naval pride, family unity and operational strength during celebrations held at Lieutenant Colonel Kimaro Stadium inside the Kenya Navy Base, Mtongwe, in Mombasa County.
The annual event, popularly known as Kenya Navy Day, was presided over by Commander Kenya Navy Major General Paul Otieno and brought together serving personnel, veterans and their families in a show of solidarity and appreciation.
Observed every December 14, Kenya Navy Day commemorates the establishment of the naval service as part of the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), while also providing an opportunity to reflect on milestones achieved over the year.
This year’s celebrations placed special emphasis on recognising the role of families in supporting service members during deployments and demanding operations.
In a rare gesture, families were treated to sea rides aboard Kenya Navy Ships (KNS) Jasiri and Shupavu, offering them first-hand experience of the maritime environment in which their loved ones serve.
The day also featured a range of activities aimed at promoting fitness, cohesion and esprit de corps, including a swimming competition that underscored teamwork and camaraderie among participants.
Children and families enjoyed recreational activities such as bouncing castles, chess, tug-of-war and other games, transforming the stadium into a lively family-friendly arena.
A communal luncheon, live entertainment and award ceremonies further added to the festive mood, with children receiving Christmas gifts.
Addressing attendees, Major General Otieno paid tribute to naval families for their resilience and unwavering support, noting that their sacrifices are central to the Navy’s operational success.
“Thank you for making this day meaningful. Enjoy the celebrations, cherish time with your families and continue to uphold the spirit of togetherness that defines the Kenya Navy,” he said.
The anniversary celebrations followed a series of community and environmental initiatives conducted in the days leading up to the event, including tree-planting, a beach clean-up exercise and a 30-kilometre walk within Mombasa County, reflecting the Navy’s commitment to environmental conservation and community engagement.
On December 11, 2025, Kenya Navy personnel, led by Deputy Commander Kenya Navy Fleet Colonel Robert Birech, also joined other maritime agencies at the launch of the National Marine Spill Response Contingency Plan (2025) and the cold wash for the Maritime Security and Pollution Response Exercise 2025.
The event, held at Pride Inn Paradise Beach Resort and Spa in Mombasa, was officiated by Principal Secretary for the State Department for Shipping and Maritime Affairs, Aden Millah, who said the plan would enhance preparedness and coordination in protecting Kenya’s marine environment.
Millah urged stakeholders to work collaboratively to safeguard marine resources and ensure the long-term sustainability of the country’s maritime sector for future generations.
