Bungoma County Governor Kenneth Lusaka has joined other leaders in celebrating the appointment of Major General Benard Waliaula as the new Commander of the Kenya Air Force.

In a post shared on Saturday, June 28, Lusaka expressed pride in Waliaula’s achievement, describing the promotion as a moment of honour for Bungoma County. The governor noted that Waliaula’s elevation to one of the highest military positions reflects years of discipline, dedication, and service to the nation.

Waliaula, who hails from Bungoma, has had a long and decorated career in the military. His appointment has been received with pride across the region, with many viewing it as a major milestone for the county. The governor further wished him success as he assumed his role in the Air Force.

”I take this moment to warmly congratulate Major General Benard Waliula on his well-deserved appointment as the Commander of the Kenya Air Force. As a son of Bungoma, we are proud of your outstanding service and dedication to our nation. Wishing you great success in your new role!” Lusaka said.

I take this moment to warmly congratulate Major General Benard Waliula on his well-deserved appointment as the Commander of the Kenya Airforce.

As a son of Bungoma, we are proud of your outstanding service and dedication to our nation. Wishing you great success in your new role! pic.twitter.com/ydlHXrCr0J

— Rt Hon Kenneth Lusaka (@SpeakerKLusaka) June 28, 2025

Appointment

On June 27, 2025, President William Ruto appointed Waliaula as the Commander of the Kenya Air Force, succeeding Major General Fatuma Ahmed, who retired after a distinguished 42-year career.

JUNE 2025 POSTINGS, PROMOTIONS AND APPOINTMENTS

Today His Excellency Hon Dr William Samoei Ruto, C.G.H, President of the Republic of Kenya, and Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Forces upon recommendation of the Defence Council, has promoted Major General David Kipkemboi Ketter… pic.twitter.com/9XVVBkAqcn

— Kenya Defence Forces (@kdfinfo) June 27, 2025

The appointment, announced by the Ministry of Defence following recommendations from the Defence Council chaired by Defence Cabinet Secretary Roselinda Soipan Tuya, was part of a broader military leadership reshuffle aimed at strengthening the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF).

Previous roles

Prior to this role, Waliaula served as the Director of Defence National Security Industries, a position he held since at least July 2022, where he oversaw key initiatives, including officiating the 3rd KDF Medical Scientific Conference in March 2024 and flagging off the KDF contingent for the Africa Military Games in November 2024, emphasizing discipline and military diplomacy.

Earlier in his career, as a brigadier in July 2021, he served as the Base Commander of Laikipia Air Base, hosting senior military officials during a farewell visit.

Promoted to Major General on July 20, 2022, under President Uhuru Kenyatta, Waliaula’s extensive experience in strategic military roles and his leadership in national security industries positioned him as a key figure to lead the Kenya Air Force, which operates critical bases and a diverse fleet of aircraft.