The United Nation (UN) has appointed a Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) General to lead its soldiers in a peacekeeping mission in South Sudan.
Lieutenant-General Johnson Kimani Ondieki was chosen by UN Secretary-General Ban Ki Moon to command a 12,500 military force that consists of soldiers from 55 countries.
In a statement from the Organisation, Mr Moon hailed the 56-year-old for his previous achievements and vast experience in national and international military service.
'Having served as Deputy Army Chief of Staff-Command and Control of Kenya Army Forces since 2013, Ondieki was previously General Officer Commanding Western Command, Kenya Army, from 2012 to 2013, and Land Forces Component Commander of the Kenya Defence Forces in Operations from 2011 to 2012,” the statement reads in part.
Kenyan envoy to UN Macharia Kamau, revealed that the country had severally pushed for the position to a point of involving engagement of the Head of State.
“It sure is a very good feeling for us out here as we have been pushing for this position since 2011. I also would also like to point out that it also took the direct intervention of President Uhuru Kenyatta to make this a reality,” said Kamau.
In the new role, Mr Ondieki will lead the Forces in crafting strategies to consolidate peace and security, and help establish a conducive environment for the development of South Sudan.
According to his military record, the General has 34 years of experience and was highly credited for most of the accomplishments KDF made in Somalia including being among the top Commanders who led the recapturing of several Al-Shabaab strongholds.
