Lieutenant General David Keter has officially assumed office as the 24th Kenya Army Commander, succeeding Lieutenant General David Tarus in a formal change of guard ceremony held on Thursday at the Kenya Army Headquarters in Nairobi.
The leadership transition follows a military reshuffle announced last week by President William Ruto, acting on the recommendations of the Defence Council. Prior to his appointment, Lt Gen Keter served as the Assistant Chief of Defence Forces in charge of Personnel and Logistics at the Defence Headquarters.
In his farewell address, outgoing commander Lt Gen Tarus, who has been redeployed as Vice Chancellor of the National Defence University-Kenya (NDU-K), expressed confidence in his successor’s ability to lead the Army effectively.
“I am truly delighted to hand over the leadership of the Kenya Army to Lt Gen Keter. Your extensive experience across various roles in the Kenya Defence Forces has equipped you with the capabilities necessary to lead in today’s dynamic security environment,” said Tarus. He urged troops to extend full support to the new commander, citing it as critical to achieving mission success.
Tarus also thanked the personnel of the Kenya Army for their professionalism and dedication. “I will always respect you for putting the country before self. You are our Army and I am proud of all of you,” he said.
Lt Gen Keter expressed his gratitude to his predecessor for his exemplary leadership and the legacy he leaves behind. “The progress made in the Army is largely due to the vision and energy of Lt Gen Tarus and those before him,” he stated.
Keter pledged to lead with inclusivity and to prioritize the welfare and operational readiness of Army personnel. “I will provide leadership that is supportive and visionary, ensuring every soldier is well-equipped and trained to excel,” he affirmed.
The ceremony was attended by Deputy Army Commander Major General Mohamed Hassan, general officers, formation commanders, senior officers, service members, and staff from the Headquarters Kenya Army, marking a new chapter in the leadership of the country’s land forces.
