France Honours Three Senior KDF Leaders With National Decorations
Three senior Kenya Defence Forces leaders were awarded prestigious French national decorations for their contributions to military cooperation. The ceremony highlighted the long-standing defense ties between Kenya and France.
Why it matters
The event underscores the strategic military and diplomatic alliance between Kenya and France in the East African region.
Senior Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) leaders receiving prestigious French national decorations at the French residence in Nairobi on September 29, 2026. Photo KDF --> Three senior Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) leaders have received prestigious French national decorations in recognition of their distinguished service and contribution to Kenya-France defence cooperation.
Lieutenant General John Omenda and Lieutenant Colonel Michael Gense were awarded the Legion of Honour, France’s highest national order recognising exceptional military and civilian service.
Lieutenant General David Tarus, Vice-Chancellor of the National Defence University, was separately conferred with the National Order of Merit for his distinguished service and contribution to defence cooperation.
In a statement, KDF said the honours were conferred by French Ambassador to Kenya Wadid Benaabou during a ceremony held on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, at the French Residence in Nairobi.
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