On Thursday, 12 September 2024, Brigadier Olly Bryant, the British Defence Adviser to Kenya, hosted a special reception to mark Armed Forces Day and celebrate the extraordinary service and dedication of military personnel. The event, held at his official residence, The Jessop House, gathered representatives from the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), Defence Attachés and Advisers, UK military units based in Kenya, and other distinguished guests from the military community.
Armed Forces Day, observed annually in the UK and mirrored by many Commonwealth countries, honors the bravery and commitment of military personnel, past and present. The occasion provided an opportunity to reflect on the enduring partnership between the UK and Kenya, one built on decades of military collaboration, joint training exercises, and shared efforts to promote peace and stability in the region.
During the reception, Brigadier Bryant awarded Coronation Medals to ten KDF personnel in recognition of their participation in the historic Coronation of King Charles III in May 2023. Among the honorees was Lt. Col. John Mwangi, who shared his pride: "It was an honor to represent Kenya at such a historic event, and today's recognition makes it even more memorable."
The event's atmosphere was enhanced by the stirring music of the Kenya Army Band, whose melodies evoked memories of parades and training drills that many of the attendees had experienced throughout their military careers. The flags of both nations adorned the venue, emphasizing the bond between the two countries, while the military uniforms worn by many of the attendees stood as symbols of years of dedicated service.
In his address, Brigadier Bryant paid tribute to the sacrifices made by military personnel, particularly those who have fallen in the line of duty. He remarked, "Service in the Armed Forces is exactly that - a service. With that service comes sacrifice, and, sadly, far too often, the ultimate sacrifice. We read with heavy heart the regular reports of brave KDF soldiers killed in Somalia and border areas, in their fight to protect the country from the threat of terrorism."
The event underscored the importance of the UK-Kenya military relationship, which has seen both countries work together to address key security challenges. Brigadier Bryant concluded the evening by reaffirming the UK's commitment to enhancing this partnership, with upcoming joint training missions aimed at furthering peace and security in East Africa.
