By Emmanuel Nduka
In a historic feat, Kenya’s President, William Ruto, on Thursday appointed Major General Fatuma Gaiti Ahmed as the first female Commander of the Kenyan Air Force.
Heritage Times HT reports that the move follows the tragic helicopter crash last month, which claimed the lives of the military chief and others, prompting the need for new replacements.
General Charles Kahariri as new head of the Armed Forces and other leaders were appointed alongside Major General Ahmed.
About Major General Ahmed
The emergence of the General who began her illustrious military career in 1983, has shattered gender barriers throughout her career, becoming the first woman to achieve the ranks of brigadier and major general in a military leadership dominated by men.
She joined the Women Service Corps, a separate entity from the main military services, focusing on support duties such as administration, logistics, medical, and communication. With the disbandment of the unit in 1999, women were integrated into the main military services, opening up more opportunities for them to excel.
During her promotion to Major General in 2018, former President Uhuru Kenyatta emphasized her role as a positive role model for women in the country. He encouraged her to prove that there are no limits for women in any profession.
Major General Ahmed’s determination to succeed despite discouragement from some family members reflects her resilience and commitment to making a difference. Inspired by her uncle’s military career, she embraced the values of discipline and hard work that shaped her life from an early age.
Her prestigious rise through the ranks serves as a testament to the progress towards gender equality in the armed forces, setting an inspiring example for women across the nation and Africa.
