Two Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) cadets have been selected to join top military academies in the United States.
Moses Kipsang will join the United States Air Force Academy, while Philemon Munjuri has been accepted into the United States Naval Academy. These are two of the most respected military schools in the world.
KDF, in partnership with the United States Africa Command (USAFRICOM), held a special event in Nairobi on Wednesday to honour the cadets, during which General Michael Langley, the head of USAFRICOM, said he was delighted to welcome the duo to the US military academies.
"I want to take this early opportunity to wish them the best in training and to stay in the US," even as he pledged the US's support.
Brigadier Peter Kimondiu, the Deputy Commandant of the Kenya Military Academy, also praised the cadets for their achievement.
"It is a great honour to celebrate the selection of these cadets to train at two of the most prestigious US military institutions. Your discipline and hard work have brought you this far," he said.
Brigadier Kimondiu reminded the cadets that more challenges will come, but added that the challenges with come with more growth opportunities.
He urged them to work hard and make Kenya proud, saying their selection was a testament to the strong friendship between Kenya and the US.
In January 2024, the US government donated state-of-the-art military protective equipment worth over Ksh220 million to the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) to help the country address rising security challenges.
AFRICOM explained that the donation exemplifies the strong relationship between Kenya and the United States.
According to AFRICOM, these advanced artillery systems will be essential for enhancing the security and effectiveness of the military personnel.
The equipment will also provide enhanced defence capabilities during peacekeeping operations.
