Elgeyo Marakwet, Kenya – General Francis Ogolla, Kenya’s esteemed Chief of Defence Forces, tragically died on May 29 when the military helicopter he was traveling in crashed in the remote Sindar area of Elgeyo Marakwet County, located in the Rift Valley. The devastating news was announced to the nation by President William Ruto in a somber, nationally televised address.

National Loss

“I am deeply saddened to announce the passing of General Francis Ogolla,” President Ruto stated, visibly moved. He confirmed that nine other senior military officers who were on board the helicopter also perished in the crash, marking a significant loss for the nation's armed forces. The crash occurred shortly after the Kenya Air Force helicopter had taken off. Of the eleven service members on board at the time of the incident, two miraculously survived with injuries and were airlifted for medical care.

Investigation and Mourning

Authorities have launched a comprehensive air accident investigation to determine the cause of the tragic crash. In honor of the deceased, President Ruto declared a three-day period of national mourning. He paid tribute to General Ogolla as “a distinguished four-star general” who dedicated his life to serving the nation and died tragically while on active duty, inspecting troops and security operations in the North Rift region.