The wife of the late General Francis Ogolla, Aileen Ogolla on May 7, 2024 handed over her position as the Military Wives Association of Kenya (MWAK) chairperson.
Aileen’s decision comes three weeks after the husband tragically died in a helicopter crash on April 19,2024.
In a ceremony held in Nairobi, Aileen handed over the reigns of MWAK leadership to Grace Kahariri who is the spouse to current Chief of Defence Forces Charles Muriu Kahariri .
MWAK leadership structure closely mirrors the Kenya Defence Forces hierarchy.
President Ruto, who is the Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces had previously appointed Charles Muriu kahariri as the new CDF and John Omenda as the Vice Chief of Defence Forces [VCDF].
Grace Kahariri who had previously served as the vise chair of MWAK, now assumes the top leadership position.
Aileen expressed her gratitude to the MWAK staff for their support during the short tenure as the chairperson.
She encouraged members to extend the same spirit to Grace Kahariri, emphasizing the importance of making a positive difference for women and families of KDF personnel.
Although Aileen is stepping away from military barracks, she remains available to contribute her insights on welfare matters for MWAK.
“I look forward to seeing this organization morph into something bigger and register even more achievements,” she said while being thankful for the opportunity to serve.
The office holders for chairperson and vise chairperson are spouse of the chief of defence forces and vice of chief of defence forces.
At the same time, Hellen Omenda the spouse to VCDF was appointed to deputise Grace Kahariri.