Three senior Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) officers have received French national decorations for their service and contribution to defence and security cooperation between Kenya and France.
In a statement on October 1, KDF said French Ambassador to Kenya Wadid Benaabou conferred the Legion of Honour on Lieutenant General John Omenda and Lieutenant Colonel Michael Gense during a ceremony at the French Residence in Nairobi.
“Senior Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) leaders have received prestigious French national decorations in recognition of their distinguished service and contribution to strengthening defence and security cooperation between Kenya and France,” read part of the statement.
KDF Officers Receive Top French Military Honours
Lieutenant General David K. C. Tarus, Vice-Chancellor of the National Defence University-Kenya (NDU-K), received the National Order of Merit for his contribution to defence cooperation between the two countries.
The decorations were presented during a seminar bringing together French Defence Attachés serving in East Africa, military authorities and representatives of the KDF.
France’s Legion of Honour is the country’s highest national order, recognising exceptional military and civilian service, while the National Order of Merit honours distinguished service and achievement.
The decorations come against the backdrop of continued military cooperation between Kenya and France, covering areas such as training, capacity building, professional engagement, knowledge exchange and security cooperation.
Through defence diplomacy and professional military engagements, the KDF and French Armed Forces have continued to strengthen their institutional ties and cooperation on shared security interests.
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About Lieutenant General John Omenda
Lt Gen Omenda was promoted to Lieutenant General and appointed Vice Chief of the Defence Forces on May 2, 2024. He previously served as Commander of the Kenya Air Force, a position he held from July 23, 2021.
He joined the Kenya Defence Forces on May 23, 1991, and was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Kenya Air Force on August 14, 1992. He trained as a fighter pilot and later undertook additional training in flight safety and national security.
Throughout his military career, Lt Gen Omenda has held various command and operational positions. He served as Base Commander at Laikipia Air Base after his promotion to Brigadier on July 13, 2018, before becoming Deputy Air Force Commander on April 30, 2020.
His previous appointments also include Deputy Base Commander at Laikipia Air Base, Officer Commanding No. 15 Squadron, Flight Commander Operations for No. 15 Squadron, and pilot roles with Nos. 15 and 11 Squadrons.
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Who Is Eligible for the French Legion of Honor Award
The National Order of the Legion of Honour is France’s highest national decoration for both military and civilian service.
Napoleon Bonaparte established it on May 19, 1802, to recognize outstanding service and exceptional contributions to France and its values.
The honour can also be awarded to foreign nationals who have rendered distinguished service to France or contributed to causes supported by the country.
Recipients may be recognized for achievements in areas such as culture, science, humanitarian work, human rights and military service.
Foreign military personnel and veterans who have contributed to France’s interests or supported its military efforts can also receive the decoration.
In addition to merit-based awards, France may confer the Legion of Honour on foreign officials and other prominent figures as part of diplomatic relations and international cooperation.
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