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Wednesday, February 13, 2013
Chief of Defence Forces General Julius Karangi has hailed Kenya
Defence Forces (KDF) for their role in restoring stability in Somalia.
Karangi said Kenya forces involvement in the Somali operation with
the UN-backed African Union force Mission in Somalia (Amisom) had
enhanced the country’s territorial integrity and bolstered its image
regionally and internationally.
He said KDF continue to be a symbol of nationhood with officers drawn from different communities working together in unity.
The Chief of Defence Forces made the remarks at Kenya Military
Academy in Lanet where he presided over the graduation parade of
Specialists and Special Duty Officers.
“The confidencee bestowed in our troops in peace keeping missions
under United Nations is testimony of high military training and
professionalism in our forces,” he said.
He urged the forces to be ambassadors of peace and continue to be an
example of how people can live together in the country irrespective of
tribal affiliation.
During the ceremony, 39 officers graduated after undergoing a
four-month vigorous training in various fields including computer
technology, meteorology, geographical information systems, medical,
veterinary and journalism. Karangi said the officers will be posted to
various formations and units and urged them to apply their training
diligently and guard against irresponsible behaviour.
“You should not engage in irresponsible behaviour that may jeopardise
your personal health or the integrity of the force,” he advised.
He said the officers are fortunate to serve in the noble profession
charged with defending the country and they should not waste and betray
that trust.
“Success will depend by and large on personal integrity, discipline,
loyalty to the country and the Commander in Chief,” he added.