Militaries across the world have been urged to recognise the life of the soldier as an individual who comes from a loving family that shares the sacrifice alongside the serving personnel.
This was the call from Commander Kenya Navy, Maj Gen Paul Otieno to delegates from various countries attending the 59th Apostolat Militaire International (AMI) Conference in Mombasa.
The conference was held under the theme, ‘Military Service with a Human Face: Challenges and Opportunities for Young Military Families’, to underscore the essence of service.
Maj Gen Otieno reminded attendees that behind every soldier is an individual with a loving family waiting at home, highlighting the human side of military life.
“Beyond the uniform, they are sons and daughters, husbands and wives, fathers and mothers each carrying their own hopes, dreams and aspirations,” he said.
Further, he noted that military life is characterised by unique circumstances and demands that impact the family unit.
He pointed out constant relocations and long periods of separation due to deployments as having the potential to put a strain on both the family relationship and the mental well-being of all involved.
He was hopeful that such conferences would come up with real and practical solutions that would shape future policies to foster a culture of genuine support and resilience for military families.
In her address to the delegates, National Security Advisor Monica Juma delved into the relationship and interactions of the state, Defence and the church.
She highlighted the contributions of the church to both the military families and the state, expanding democratic rights of citizens, mediation of religious tensions, creation of shared community values and general development of the country.
“The churches have been significant contributors to the development of the country in offering essential social services in terms of hospitals, and schools, as well as solving political disputes in the country, ” she added.
She appealed for a deliberate intent in support of the younger generation joining the military service so that they are grounded in faith and values.
The five-day event which started on September 9 until September 13, 2024 attracted 80 delegates from 19 countries across the world.
