Kenya Navy’s Manda Bay Base has paid special tribute to a group of retiring Warrant Officers whose illustrious careers each span more than three decades of dedicated service.
The ceremony honoured not only their long years in uniform but also the discipline, mentorship, and institutional memory they have passed down to successive generations of sailors.
Base Commander Brigadier Lazarus Wafula praised the retirees as distinguished sailors whose commitment has fortified the professionalism and operational readiness of the Kenya Navy.
He noted that their careers exemplify the highest standards of duty and integrity, and that their influence will remain deeply embedded in the service.
“To our retiring personnel, on behalf of the Kenya Navy, I extend my deepest appreciation for your outstanding service to our nation. For more than three decades, you have carried the Navy’s flag with honour, discipline, and unwavering commitment," Brigadier Wafula said.
He added: "Your leadership has shaped the character of the entire force and inspired generations of sailors who continue to follow in your footsteps."
For over 30 years, the senior enlisted leaders have formed the backbone of naval operations, guiding young service members, enforcing standards, shaping unit culture, and sustaining mission readiness across multiple deployments.
Their leadership inspired professionalism, strengthened time-honoured naval traditions, and contributed significantly to the operational effectiveness of the Navy.
Taekwondo team during the event/KSFColleagues and commanders lauded their loyalty, resilience, and selfless service, noting that their legacy will remain firmly anchored in the Navy’s history.
Their retirement closes a distinguished chapter, but the values they championed, integrity, courage, and service before self, will continue to guide future generations.
In the same spirit of recognition, the event also celebrated excellence in sports and marksmanship, reaffirming the importance of physical preparedness and competitive discipline within the force.
The Manda Bay Taekwondo Team and the Manda Range Teams were honoured for their outstanding performance in the recently concluded Kenya Navy Challenge Cup competitions.
The Taekwondo team received accolades for their agility, teamwork, and mental resilience—qualities that mirror the high physical and tactical standards expected of military personnel.
Likewise, the Manda Range Teams were praised for their exceptional precision, control, and tactical focus, skills that directly reinforce operational capability in active-duty settings.
Brigadier Wafula added that these achievements underscore the depth of talent and determination within Manda Base, emphasising that excellence in sport and combat disciplines remains essential to mission success.
The teams’ victories brought pride to the base and served as inspiration for other units to pursue excellence both in training and in operations.
