NAIROBI, Kenya – Dedication to National Service: A Call from General Mohamud

In an era marked by swift transformations and growing uncertainties, the words of a seasoned leader like General Mohamud Haji Mohamed resonate like a timeless tune. Nearly three decades after he left the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), the former Chief of General Staff extends a heartfelt appeal to current service members: to serve with unwavering dedication.

On a memorable day, May 20th, 2025, General Charles Kahariri, the acting Chief of the Defence Forces, made a courtesy visit to General Mohamud at his Nairobi residence. The visit wasn’t just a gesture of respect but a bridge connecting the past with the present.

Surrounded by officers, General Mohamud, who retired in 1996, shared reflections of his time in the forces. With a sense of pride, he lauded the progress made by the KDF, attributing it to the solid foundations established during his tenure and those of his predecessors. Isn’t it fascinating how the seeds sown in the past continue to bear fruit?

Amid evolving security challenges, he echoed a poignant reminder: “Serve with commitment and dedication.” His words serve as a guiding light to the current personnel, reminding them of the enduring values that define the KDF.

General Kahariri, with a tone of genuine admiration, celebrated General Mohamud’s illustrious career, marked by valor, loyalty, and leadership. “Your courage is not only legendary but an inspiration for all who wear the uniform,” he remarked. An acknowledgment from a peer, or a successor, can often stir deep emotions. Isn’t it the essence of leadership to inspire others to follow in your footsteps?

Born in 1955, General Mohamud’s rise through the ranks was nothing short of extraordinary. By 1986, he was appointed as the 4th Chief of the General Staff, a position he held until his retirement. His story is a testament to resilience and adaptability, traits that continue to inspire many within the KDF. How do such narratives of perseverance influence young officers starting their journey today?

The Company of Dignitaries

Accompanying General Kahariri during the visit was a retinue of senior officers including Major General Fred Leuria, Major General Abdulkadir Burje, and others who form the backbone of the current military leadership. Their presence not only honored General Mohamud but underscored the continuity of guidance and shared wisdom.

A Legacy Etched in History

General Mohamud’s legacy is replete with remarkable achievements. Rising from a serviceman with limited formal education to a Four-Star General, he exemplified tenacity. Famously known for thwarting the 1982 coup attempt, his decisive actions changed the course of Kenya’s history.

As the first officer to command both the Air Force and Kenya Army, his adaptability set a precedent. What drives a person to achieve such milestones despite the odds? Perhaps it’s the belief, as Ralph Waldo Emerson once said, “Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.”

On a lighter note, he is also the father-in-law to Aden Duale, a significant figure in Kenya’s political landscape, currently serving as the Health Minister. Such familial ties often underline the interconnectedness of public service.

This narrative, rich with the essence of wisdom, dedication, and enduring values, reminds us that the torch of public service is ever-burning, fueled by those who serve with integrity and pride.

Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International–Monitoring