Traffic disruptions have been witnessed in several areas in the Nyanza region ahead of the burial of the late Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) of General Francis Ogolla.

The body of General Ogolla arrived at Kisumu International Airport around 8:15 am, and the procession to his rural home in Siaya began by road shortly thereafter.

CDF Francis Ogolla convoy

A convoy of approximately 50 vehicles, including escort motorcycles, a hearse, and a mini-bus carrying family members, was flanked by two military police cars.

Road closures and police escorts have been implemented to ensure the convoy moves efficiently, though it is running behind schedule. Affected roads include the Kisumu-Busia road, which the convoy used upon leaving the airport.

The Kisumu-Bondo road and Kisian-Bondo areas have also seen significant traffic disruptions as the authorities have cleared the way for the convoy. Roads in Siaya County are set to be affected.

Hundreds of Kisumu County residents have gathered along the roadsides to pay their respects, some were seen wailing as the procession passes.

The convoy is heading to the Obama K’Ogello Primary School in Ngi’ya Village, where a memorial service will be held.

General Ogolla joined the Kenya Defence Forces in 1984. He started his career as a 2nd lieutenant in the Kenyan Air Force, receiving fighter pilot training with the US Air Force.

In 2018, he became Commander of the Kenya Air Force and later served as Vice Chief of Defence Forces.

He was appointed Chief of Defence Forces by President William Ruto in April 2023, following the retirement of General Robert Kariuki Kibochi.

General Ogolla was a graduate of several military institutions, including the École Militaire de Paris, the National Defence College of Kenya, Egerton University, and the University of Nairobi.

He was honoured with several awards, including the Elder of the Order of the Golden Heart of Kenya (EGH) and Chief of the Order of the Burning Spear (CBS).

General Francis Ogolla’s death

The general died in a helicopter crash on April 18, 2024, in Sindar, Elgeyo-Marakwet County, at approximately 2:20 pm.

Nine other military personnel also lost their lives in the crash, while two were injured.

The helicopter, a Bell UH-1H Huey II operated by the 53 Tactical Helicopter Squadron of the Kenyan Air Force, was returning from a mission to reopen schools in the North Rift region following bandit attacks and inspect soldiers engaged in stabilizing operations.