Breaking glass ceiling: Lt. Col Mwagandi becomes first KDF female officer to lead Guard of Honour

NAIROBI, Kenya - History was recorded in Kenya on Sunday when Lt. Colonel Faith Mwagandi became the first female officer in the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) to lead a Guard of Honour in a national celebration event.

Before leading the KDF in the 61st celebration of the Mashujaa Day in Kwale, south coast, the KDF acknowledged her gains in the military, signalling the historic significance of this milestone within the Defence Forces.

"During today’s Mashujaa Day 2024 celebrations, a notable highlight will be the presence of the Guard of Honor (GoH) commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Faith Mwagandi, marking a historic moment as she becomes the first female senior officer to lead a GoH at a national event," the KDF said.

Traditionally, KDF was dominated by men who led services, formations, brigades and divisions but in the last two decades, gender mainstreaming of the military has taken centre stage. More women have risen ranks in the three services (army, navy and air force).

While addressing thousands of Kenyans in Kwale, President William Ruto lauded the achievement of the Kenya Navy officer, who guided him throughout while inspecting the Guard of Honour mounted by the Kenya Defence Forces.

"Kenya has continued to give women space to thrive in various disciplines, including in the military. A few minutes ago, we witnessed Lt. Col Faith Mwagandi make history as the first female officer to lead a Guard of Honour, " he said.

Predominantly a patriarchal community just like in many parts of Africa, women find it difficult to rise through the ranks in public service and even in the political arena. For instance, out of 47 governors, Kenya has only seven female county bosses.

But the gender mainstreaming ideology may have been firmly anchored in the military under the famous Tonje rules, introduced by the former Chief of Defence Forces Daudi Tonje, who abolished the Female Service Corps, integrating them into the mainstream.

In the recent history, Maj. General Fatuma Ahmed became the first female officer to become a Brigadier and Major General. Recently, she became the first female officer to head a KDF Service, having been appointed the Commander, of Kenya Air Force.

GAROWE ONLINE