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The Chief of Defence Forces General Francis Ogolla died in a helicopter accident in North Rift on 18th of April 2024.

The 4-star General was born on February 12, 1962 in Siaya County, graduated from the KDF as a cadet on May 2, 1984, rising to second lieutenant a year later before being posted to the Moi Air Base where he trained as a pilot.

He held a diploma in International Studies and Military Science from Egerton University, a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, Armed Conflict, and Peace Studies, and a Masters of Arts in International Studies from the University of Nairobi. He also studied as a military science graduate from École Militaire de Paris and the National Defence College of Kenya.

A Kenya Air Force soldier stands beside a plaque bearing the image of the fallen Chief of Defence Forces, General F. O. Ogolla.
In a solemn procession. Led by the clergy, KDF carry General Ogolla’s casket in a lap of honour around the Ulinzi Sports Complex track.
Soldiers salute the remains of the late general during a lap of honour at the Ulinzi Sports Complex
Joel Rabuku Ogolla delivers a heartfelt eulogy at his father’s memorial service
Former Prime Minister Raila Amollo Odinga giving a speech during the memorial service.
Members of public join the military to say goodbye to the General.
Members of the diplomatic corps were in attendance to pay their last respects.
Smoke hangs heavy in the air. A solemn tribute in the form of a 19-gun salute for the deceased General.
Members of the Kenya Air Force perform the Missing Man formation aerial salute in honor of General Ogolla, a former Kenya Air Force commander.
President William Ruto and his deputy arrive in Siaya County to pay their last respects.
President William Ruto condoles Mrs Aileen Ogolla, wife of the late General. Ogolla.
Senior officers of Kenya’s military lead the way to the grave site of their fallen commander.