Kenya’s President William Ruto has appointed Maj. Gen. Fatuma Gaiti Ahmed as the first female commander of the air force, marking a historic milestone in the country’s military leadership.
The appointment comes in the wake of a tragic helicopter crash last month, which claimed the lives of the military chief and others, prompting the urgent need for new leadership.
In addition to Maj. Gen. Ahmed’s appointment, other leaders were also named, including a new head of the armed forces. Gen. Charles Kahariri was promoted to fill the vacancy left by the late military chief.
Maj. Gen. Ahmed’s journey to this esteemed role has been marked by breaking gender barriers throughout her career. She notably became the first woman to achieve the ranks of brigadier and major general in a military leadership traditionally dominated by men.
Her military career commenced in 1983 when she joined the Women Service Corps, a separate entity from the main military services, focusing on support duties such as administration, logistics, medical, and communication. The disbandment of the unit in 1999 paved the way for women’s integration into the main military services, providing increased opportunities for them to excel.
During Maj. Gen. Ahmed’s promotion to major general in 2018, President Uhuru Kenyatta underscored her role as a positive role model for women in the nation, encouraging her to demonstrate that there are no limits for women in any profession.
Maj. Gen. Ahmed’s determination to succeed despite discouragement from some family members reflects her resilience and commitment to making a difference. Inspired by her uncle’s military career, she embraced the values of discipline and hard work that shaped her life from an early age.
Her ascent through the ranks stands as a testament to the strides made towards gender equality in the armed forces, serving as an inspiring example for women across the nation.
