The annals of Kenya's military history will forever bear the indelible mark of Major General Fatuma Gaiti Ahmed. The trailblazing officer, who commanded national headlines just over a year ago with her historic appointment as the Commander of the Kenya Air Force, has officially retired from active military service. This announcement, made by President William Ruto through the Ministry of Defence, marks the culmination of a stellar career spanning more than four decades, during which Major General Ahmed consistently defied expectations and shattered barriers.
Major General Fatuma Ahmed’s journey within the armed forces is a testament to unwavering dedication and exceptional leadership. Recruited into the service in 1983, she embarked on a career that would see her achieve an unprecedented series of "firsts" for women in the Kenyan military. Her rise through the ranks was met with widespread admiration and respect, not just within military circles, but across the nation.
In 2015, she etched her name into history by becoming the first woman to be promoted to the rank of Brigadier. This groundbreaking appointment was publicly lauded by then-President Uhuru Kenyatta, who recognized her as a potent role model for women across the country, inspiring a generation to aspire for leadership in all fields, including traditionally male-dominated ones. Her ascent continued, and in 2018, she once again broke new ground, becoming the first female Major General. This significant promotion paved the way for her subsequent appointment as an Assistant Chief of Defence Forces, specifically in charge of Personnel and Logistics – a role of immense strategic importance within the military hierarchy.
Prior to her celebrated promotion to the helm of the Air Force on May 2 last year, Major General Ahmed held other critical assignments. She served as the Senior Directing Staff Air at the prestigious National Defence College, following her impactful tenure as the Commandant of the Kenya Military Academy (KMA) until 2021. Each of these roles underscored her consistent capability and leadership acumen at the highest echelons of military education and strategic planning.
As Major General Ahmed steps into retirement, her distinguished post as Commander of the Kenya Air Force will be taken over by Major General Bernard Waliaula, formerly the Director of Defence National Security Industries. Confirming the transition, Temesi Mukani, the Ministry of Defence’s director of public communication, stated, “The President has appointed Major General Bernard Waliaula as the commander of the Kenya Air Force. Major General Bernard Waliaula replaces Major General Fatuma Gaiti Ahmed whose term of service has come to an end after 42 years of service.”
