The Uganda People’s Defense Forces (UPDF) has extended its condolences to Kenya following the tragic loss of Kenya’s Chief of Defense Forces (CDF), Gen. Francis Ogolla, and nine others in a helicopter crash. The incident occurred on Thursday in Sindar, Elgeyo-Marakwet County.
Brig. Felix Kulayigye, spokesperson for Uganda’s Defense Force, conveyed the heartfelt sympathies of UPDF, expressing solidarity with Gen. Ogolla’s family and the entire Kenyan nation. “On behalf of the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) General Muhoozi Kainerugaba and the entire Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) fraternity, we wish to register our heartfelt condolences to the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), the bereaved families, and the entire Kenyan nation upon the demise of these gallant officers,” Kulayigye stated.
Gen. Ogolla’s passing was officially announced by Kenyan President William Ruto in a live address at State House, Nairobi, on Thursday. Ruto declared a period of three days of national mourning, commencing on Friday, April 19, to honor Gen. Ogolla and the other victims of the tragic accident.
The loss of Gen. Ogolla, hailed as an accomplished general, has deeply saddened the East African Community (EAC). Tributes poured in from various high-profile figures, with former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga describing him as a “true patriot.” Odinga expressed his grief on social media, remembering Gen. Ogolla as a highly decorated soldier and consummate professional.
Former President Uhuru Kenyatta also mourned Gen. Ogolla’s demise, acknowledging it as a “significant loss” to Kenya. As both Kenya and Uganda come together in mourning, the legacy of Gen. Francis Ogolla remains cherished, his contributions to the region remembered with reverence and respect.
