The Chief of the Defence Forces (CDF), General Charles Kahariri, visited Kenya Navy Base (KNB) Manda Bay on Thursday, December 18, 2025, where he met Kenya Navy personnel stationed at the base and Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) troops deployed under the multi-agency Operation Amani Boni (OAB) in Lamu County.

On arrival, General Kahariri, accompanied by General Officers and Senior Officers from Defence Headquarters, was received by the Base Commander, Brigadier Lazarus Wafula, and the OAB Commander, Brigadier William Kamoiro.

In his address to the troops on Thursday, December 18, 2025, General Kahariri conveyed greetings from President William Ruto, Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Forces. He commended the soldiers for their professionalism and dedication to national defence, emphasising the importance of teamwork, alertness, and strict adherence to mission objectives.

“Your fortitude and discipline in the face of demanding conditions reflect the true spirit of service. Your strength lies in operating together as one force, guided by a shared purpose and mutual trust,” he said.

General Kahariri reaffirmed the Kenya Defence Forces’ commitment to maintaining operational preparedness and prioritising the welfare of personnel. He highlighted ongoing and future modernisation programmes, noting investments in advanced capabilities to improve operational effectiveness and the upgrading of key platforms to address evolving security threats.

During the tour, the CDF visited several bases and camps, including Baragoni, Sinai, Sarira, and BP 27. At each location, he expressed gratitude for the troops’ dedication and resilience in safeguarding Kenya’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Kahariri said the visit is a sign of strategic leadership and continuous command oversight, reinforcing the Kenya Defence Forces’ commitment to maintaining operational momentum against security threats.

General Kahariri also said the visit boosted morale among deployed troops, affirming institutional support for their welfare, focus on the mission, and the ongoing stabilisation and security of the Boni enclave.