FKF matches to honour fallen KDF Soldiers in next 10 days

Kenyan football will join the rest of the country in paying tribute to the Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Francis Ogolla and his colleagues who passed on in a plane crash on Thursday, April 18, 2024.

In a notice issued by FKF Chief Executive Officer Barry Otieno, teams will observe a minute of silence before the start of all FKF matches with the special honour for the fallen soldiers expected to run from Friday, April 19 to Monday, April 29.

"The men and women of our armed forces have consistently displayed unwavering commitment and sacrifice in ensuring the security and stability of our beloved nation.

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Their contributions extend beyond the boundaries of their duties, often extending to safeguarding events and gatherings, including our football matches," the statement read in part.

"In light of this unfortunate event and in recognition of the invaluable service rendered by General Francis Ogolla and the other fallen soldiers, we, the Football Kenya Federation, wish to honour their memory and express our deepest condolences to their families, friends, and colleagues."

"Therefore, we kindly request all FKF members to observe a minute of silence before the commencement of all FKF matches, starting from today, April 19, 2024 to April 29, 2024 as a mark of respect and remembrance for the fallen soldiers."

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The chopper was carrying Chief of Defence Francis Ogolla and nine other KDF officers who died in the crash at Sindar area, Kaben location, Tot division, in Elgeyo Marakwet County.

The other officers who succumbed to the crash include Brig Swaleh Saidi, Col Duncan Keitany, Lt Col David Sawe, Major George Benson Magondu (who was also the pilot), Capt Sorah Mohamed, Capt Hillary Litali,  Senior Sergeant John Kinywa Mureithi, Sergent Cliffonce Omondi and Sergent Rose Nyawira.

Following Ogolla's death, President William Ruto announced a three-day national mourning period starting Friday, April 19, 2024.

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Sports Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba also eulogized Ogolla as a gallant soldier who made everything work. It is worth noting that Ababu had sought out the services of KDF to repair some of the sports facilities in the country.

"A fine son of Kenya. A fitting Chief of our Kenya Defence Forces. I knew you up close. You were professional, humble, a patriot. A good friend who made things happen. What a loss, what a national tragedy! Salute, General," Ababu wrote.

KDF also supports Ulinzi Stars, a top-flight team in the FKF Premier League which has produced some prominent names in the country's football arena.

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