President William Ruto will today lead the celebrations for the Kenya Navy’s 60th anniversary, marking six decades of service to the nation.
The event will be held at the Mtongwe Naval Base in Mombasa.
Established on December 12, 1964, exactly one year after Kenya gained independence, the Kenya Navy continues to play a crucial role in safeguarding the country’s maritime territorial integrity.
The anniversary event is meant to celebrate its achievements and contributions to the country's defense and maritime security.
Some of the key highlights of the celebration will include military displays by the officers.
Kenya Navy is one of the three branches of the Kenya Defense Forces (KDF).
Outstanding officers will also be recognised and honored for their exceptional service.
Ruto will use the opportunity to highlight the government’s ongoing commitment to enhancing the capabilities of KDF in ensuring peace and stability within Kenya's territorial waters.
One of the major successes of the Kenya Navy was the capture of the port city of Kismayu in Somalia following the military incursion into the country as part of Operation Linda Nchi in 2012.
The city was under the control of al-Shabaab militants who had continued to stage attacks in the country.
The operation was a key turning point in the fight against terrorism and piracy.
It was reported that seven ships were involved in the operation which included KNS Nyayo, KNS Umoja, KNS Galana, KNS Shujaa and KNS Jasiri.
AMISOM said the Somali National Army and Kenyan AU naval, air and ground forces launched a surprise attack on Kismayo, capturing the city with little resistance mounted by al-Shabaab.
The Kenya Navy is currently under the command of Major General Paul Otieno.
Over the past month, the service has been engaged in several activities which include tree planting and other charity initiatives, a prelude to the anniversary.