CDF Kahariri reviews Defence University progress amid evolving security threats
By Kiprono Keileb, November 4, 2025Kenya’s top military leadership has reaffirmed its commitment to shaping the future of defence education, with Chief of the Defence Forces (CDF) General Charles Kahariri leading efforts to strengthen the National Defence University of Kenya (NDU-K) into a world-class institution.
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General Kahariri, who also serves as Chairperson of the NDU-K Council, presided over the 11th Regular Council Meeting held at the International Peace Support Training Centre (IPSTC) in Nairobi on Monday, November 3, 2025, one of the university’s constituent colleges.
The meeting reviewed the institution’s progress and outlined its next strategic direction in line with Kenya’s evolving security needs.
In his address, General Kahariri commended the university for its rapid transformation into a global centre of excellence.
“General Kahariri commended the University for its rapid transformation into a global centre of excellence in defence education. He urged the Vice-Chancellor and faculty to continue equipping graduates with the strategic foresight and capabilities required to dominate across all domains, land, sea, air, space, and cyberspace,” the statement reads
He said the focus should remain on producing officers and scholars equipped with strategic foresight and capabilities required to dominate across all domains: land, sea, air, space, and cyberspace.
The meeting also looked ahead to a key event on the NDU-K calendar, its 3rd Graduation and Convocation Ceremony, scheduled for November 21, 2025.
“NDU-K Vice-Chancellor, Lieutenant General David Tarus, confirmed that the 3rd NDU-K Graduation and Convocation Ceremony will be held on 21 November 2025, and will be officiated by the NDU-K Chancellor, His Excellency William Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya and Commander-in-Chief of the Kenya Defence Forces,” the statement reads.
The Council, which brings together senior defence officials and academic leaders, reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining high standards in defence education, research, and regional collaboration. It emphasised that the university remains a cornerstone of Kenya’s strategic thought and national security planning.
Those present included Vice Chief of the Defence Forces Lieutenant General John Omenda, Kenya Army Commander Lieutenant General David Ketter, Kenya Air Force Commander Major General Benard Waliaula, and all Council members.
Through such initiatives, the Kenya Defence Forces continue to position NDU-K as more than just a university, a strategic brain trust shaping the region’s next generation of military and security leaders.