The Chief of Defence Forces of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has paid tribute to the late General Francis Ogolla, the Chief of Defence Forces of the Kenya Defence Forces, whose death he said was unfortunate.
“I am saddened to learn of the helicopter crash that claimed the life of my counterpart, General Francis Ogolla, the Chief of Defence Forces of the Kenya Defence Forces, and other KDF officers on Thursday, 18th April 2024.”
This was in a condolence message delivered by the Commander Air Force, Lt Gen Charles Okidi, on behalf of the Chief of Defence Forces at the burial service of the late General Francis Ogolla in Ngi’ya Village, Siaya County Kenya.
Gen Muhoozi highlighted the late’s direct contribution to the UPDF during the 2012 rescue efforts of two helicopter crews in Mt. Kenya.
“As the UPDF, we recall a particular incident highlighting Gen. Ogolla’s commitment to service during the tragedy of the UPDF helicopters crashing into Mt. Kenya in 2012. He was the Commander of Nanyuki Air Base and climbed the mountain to search for survivors. His actions directly contributed to the rescue of two helicopter crews.”
On 12th August 2012, three choppers that were part of a fleet of four en route to Somalia crashed into Mt. Kenya. “The UPDF will never forget what he did for us, and we pray for the swift and complete recovery of the survivors of this terrible accident,” said Gen Muhoozi in his eulogy
The CDF described Gen Ogolla’s death as unfortunate to Kenya and the entire region and implored KDF comrades to honour General Ogolla’s legacy by continuing to work towards a more secure East Africa and Africa, a vision he said the late cherished.
“The loss of General Ogolla is unfortunate, not just for Kenya but for our entire region. We stand in solidarity with our Kenyan brothers and sisters during this difficult time. On behalf of the UPDF and my own behalf, I extend our deepest condolences to His Excellency William Ruto, the Commander in Chief, the KDF fraternity, and all the people of Kenya and East Africa who mourn this loss. General Ogolla’s vast military experience and expertise will indeed be greatly missed.”
“During these difficult times, may the Almighty grant strength to General Ogolla’s family, the people of our region, and all those beyond East Africa who benefitted from his military service.
Lt Gen Charles Okidi was accompanied by Maj Gen Moses Rwakitarate, the Coordinator National Vital Assets and StrategicInstallations; Maj Gen Don Nabaasa, the 3 Division Infantry Commander; and Col David Lumumba, the Director of International Relations – Defence Intelligence and Security.
SHARED BY COL DEO AKIIKI