On Friday, 13 March 2026, a significant milestone in Kenya–France defence relations was marked aboard the French Navy Ship Dixmude, where the Chief of the Defence Forces (CDF) and Chairperson of the National Defence University–Kenya (NDU-K) Council, General Charles Kahariri, and the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Centre for Security and Strategic Studies (CSSS), Major General Joyce Sitienei, were conferred with prestigious French national honours.

General Kahariri was awarded the Legion of Honour, the highest order of merit bestowed by the Government of France, in recognition of his exemplary leadership and pivotal role in strengthening defence cooperation between Kenya and France, as well as his contribution to regional peace and stability. His recognition further reflects his strategic leadership both within the Kenya Defence Forces and in his capacity as Chairperson of the NDU-K Council, where he provides overarching governance and strategic direction to the University.

During the same ceremony, Major General Sitienei was conferred with the National Defence Medal (Médaille de la Défense nationale) – Gold Level, a distinguished French military decoration established in 1982. The award, which is the highest tier among its three levels—bronze, silver, and gold—recognises exceptional merit, professional excellence, and unwavering commitment to national defence.

Her award underscores her outstanding contributions to international peace support training, strategic security cooperation and the advancement of defence partnerships between Kenya, France, and allied forces. In her role as DVC CSSS at NDU-K, she has been instrumental in strengthening the University’s position as a centre of excellence in strategic and security studies, while advancing global collaboration in defence education and research.

The awards highlight the enduring and robust defence partnership between Kenya and France, anchored on shared priorities including maritime security, joint training, and coordinated efforts to address regional security challenges.

Speaking during the event, the French Ambassador to Kenya, Arnaud Suquet, commended the Kenya Defence Forces leadership for their steadfast commitment to enhancing bilateral defence cooperation and promoting regional stability.

The ceremony was attended by senior military and diplomatic officials from both nations, reflecting the strong and growing ties between Kenya and France. These honours not only recognise individual excellence but also reaffirm the collective commitment of both countries to fostering peace, security, and strategic cooperation.

The recognition of General Kahariri and Major General Sitienei further elevates the stature of the National Defence University–Kenya as a key institution in shaping strategic leadership, strengthening defence diplomacy, and advancing international security collaboration.