The Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), General Charles Kahariri, has been awarded France’s highest order of merit during a ceremony aboard the French amphibious assault ship DIXMUDE.
The ceremony, held on Friday, March 13, saw General Kahariri receive the prestigious Legion of Honour from the French Ambassador to Kenya, Arnaud Suquet.
Also recognised was Major General Joyce Sitienei, Deputy Vice-Chancellor at the Centre for Strategic and Security Studies of the National Defence University-Kenya, who received the National Defence Medal – Gold Level.
General Charles Kahariri Awarded France’s Highest Order of Merit on French Amphibious Ship. Photo: Courtesy.
The Legion of Honour (Ordre national de la Légion d’honneur), established by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1802, recognises outstanding service in both military and civilian capacities.
General Kahariri’s award highlights his exemplary leadership, efforts to strengthen defence cooperation, and contributions to regional security.
Maj Gen Sitienei’s medal, established in 1982, acknowledges her professional achievements, dedication to national and international security, and her role in international peace support training and defence partnerships between Kenya, France, and allied forces, according to the French ambassador.
The ambassador praised the CDF and KDF for their commitment to regional security, bilateral cooperation, and long-term military partnerships.
The awards coincided with the arrival of over 800 French military personnel at the Port of Mombasa as part of a mission focused on training and regional maritime security.
During their time in Kenya, the French forces will train alongside the Kenyan Navy, particularly units responsible for safeguarding Kenya’s coastline.
The program will emphasise maritime operations, coordination at sea, and modern naval tactics to enhance security across regional waters.
The deployment underscores the growing defence partnership between Kenya and France and their joint efforts to promote stability in the Indian Ocean region.
