General Charles Kahariri was sworn into office on May 3, 2024, making him Kenya’s 12th Chief of Defence Forces (CDF).
Gen Kahariri ascended to CDF position after the tragic death of Gen Francis Ogolla in a tragic helicopter crash.
The soft-spoken general has, however, left Kenyans in awe due to his smiling nature.
Kahariri is all smiles whether meeting the head of state, fellow senior officers, or soldiers.
President William Ruto promotes Lt Gen Charles Kahariri to full General. Photo: State House
While humble, Gen Francis Ogolla did not smile often. His predecessor, Gen Robert Kibochi (RTD), always wore a very stern look.
The smile on the general’s face has intrigued many and has been a topic of discussion among Kenyans.
General Charles Kahariri biography
He joined the KDF on April 3, 1987, and was commissioned as an officer (second lieutenant) on April 15, 1988.
Gen Charles Kahariri. Photo: KDF
Kahariri has since undergone further training in the UK before serving in various capacities within the Kenya Navy fleet.
Gen Kahariri has enjoyed an illustrious career spanning over three decades.
He has held a range of leadership, commandment, and management positions where he excelled.
Kahariri has served as the Commanding Officer (CO) of the Kenyan Navy ships Mamba, Madaraka, and Umoja.
President Ruto with Gen Kahariri. Photo: State House
He has also served as the CO at the Kenya Navy Manda Base.
He has also served in appointments like Squadron Commander, Commander of the Kenya Navy Fleet, and Deputy Commander of the Kenya Navy.
Kahariri has also served at the prestigious National Defence College (NDC) as Senior Directing Staff (Navy), Deputy Commandant (Military), and Commandant.
As regarding operational assignments, Gen Charles Kahariri served as the Task Force Commander for “Operation Sledge Hammer” during the capture of Kismayu.
Gen Kahariri. Photo: KDF
Regarding international assignments, Kahariri represented Kenya as the National Focal Point Person for the Contact Group on Piracy Off the Coast of Somalia and the Djibouti Code of Conduct.
READ ALSO: KDF ranks and salaries: All you need to know
Gen Charles Kahariri is a recipient of the Chief of the Order of the Burning Spear (CBS). He is married and blessed with three children and a grandson.
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