President William Ruto’s Aide-de-Camp (ADC), Colonel Fabian Lengusuranga, has been promoted to the rank of Brigadier in the latest round of Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) promotions. The announcement was made during an investiture and swearing-in ceremony held at State House, Nairobi, following recommendations by the National Defence Council and approved by the President.
Lengusuranga, a member of the Kenya Army’s elite Special Forces unit, has served as Ruto’s ADC since October 2022. He took over from Brigadier Timothy Lekolool, who had been former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s ADC from 2018 and briefly served under Ruto before being succeeded. Lekolool, the first ADC from the Kenya Navy, was also promoted in the latest changes ascending to the rank of Major General and appointed the senior directing staff at the National Defence College.
Born and bred within the disciplined ranks of the KDF, Lengusuranga joined the Kenya Army in 1999. He has built an impressive military career, including serving as a senior Special Forces branch commander before being tapped for the prestigious ADC role.
The position of ADC, derived from the French term meaning “helper in the military camp,” is largely ceremonial but carries immense responsibility. An ADC not only accompanies the Head of State during official functions but also plays a crucial role in managing the President’s schedule, coordinating movements, and serving as a link to the wider security apparatus.
Brigadier Lengusuranga’s elevation is viewed as recognition of his unwavering service and professionalism. His calm and steady presence beside President Ruto underscores the tradition, discipline, and trust that defines Kenya’s military leadership.
Appointments to the ADC role are made in consultation with the National Defence Council, chaired by Defence Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya. While there’s no fixed term for an ADC, most serve for about three years, depending on career progression and other factors.
As Brigadier Lengusuranga continues his service in his elevated rank, his promotion marks a significant chapter in both his career and the evolving leadership of the Kenya Defence Forces.
