The Kenya Navy has celebrated its 61st anniversary in a vibrant ceremony held at Lieutenant Colonel Kimaro Stadium within Kenya Navy Base Mtongwe, Mombasa County.
The event, popularly known as ‘Kenya Navy Day’ was led by Commander Kenya Navy, Major General Paul Otieno.
It brought together naval personnel and their families in a show of pride and unity.
Kenya Navy Day is observed annually on December 14 to mark the establishment of the navy as a service within the Kenya Defence Forces.
The occasion also serves as an opportunity to reflect on and recognize the Navy’s achievements throughout the year.
A central focus of the celebrations was the recognition of Kenya Navy families for their sacrifices and steadfast support during deployment of their loved ones.
In appreciation, families enjoyed sea rides on board Kenya Navy Ships (KNS) JASIRI, and SHUPAVU, giving them a rare experience of the operational environment in which their loved ones serve.
The Navy also organised activities aimed at fostering fitness and cohesion including a swimming competition that promoted teamwork, camaraderie and esprit de corps among participants.
Children and families were treated to a wide range of recreational activities at the stadium such as bouncing castles, chess, tug of war and other games.
A communal luncheon and live entertainment further enhanced the festive atmosphere and strengthened bonds between service personnel and their families. Winners of various games were awarded while children received Christmas gifts.
In his address during the event, Otieno, expressed his profound appreciation to families for their unwavering support and emphasised their critical role in enabling the Kenya Navy to achieve its mission.
“To everyone present, thank you for making this day meaningful. Enjoy the celebrations, cherish time with your families and continue to uphold the spirit of togetherness that defines the Kenya Navy,” he said.
As a prelude to the event, Kenya Navy conducted a series of activities including tree-planting, beach clean-up and a 30 kilometre walk within Mombasa County underscoring the service commitment to environmental conservation and community engagement.
On December 11, 2025, Kenya Navy personnel led by the Deputy Commander Kenya Navy Fleet (KNF), Colonel Robert Birech, joined other maritime agencies in the launch of the National Marine Spill Response Contingency Plan (2025) and the cold wash for the Maritime Security and Pollution Response Exercise 2025.
The event was held at the Pride Inn Paradise Beach Resort
and Spa in Mombasa.
The Principal Secretary, State Department for Shipping and Maritime Affairs, Aden Millah, officially launched the contingency plan with the goal of ensuring a clean and safe marine environment.
Millah encouraged participants to continue working together to protect the marine environment, safeguard natural resources and secure the long-term sustainability of Kenya’s marine sector for future generations.
