3 May 2024: Kenya’s President William Ruto has made history by appointing Maj Gen Fatuma Gaiti Ahmed as the first female commander of the air force. This groundbreaking decision marks a significant step towards gender equality in Kenya’s military leadership.
Maj Gen Ahmed’s journey began with a chance encounter near a stadium where a military recruitment exercise was taking place. Her curiosity led her to inquire about joining the Armed Forces, and the following year, she was accepted as an officer cadet.
Throughout her career, Maj Gen Ahmed has shattered glass ceilings, becoming the first woman to rise to the ranks of brigadier and major general. Her achievements highlight the progress towards inclusivity and equal opportunities within the military.
Born out of the disbandment of the Women Service Corps in 1999, Maj Gen Ahmed’s career path reflects the increasing integration of women into all branches of the defense forces. Previously restricted to auxiliary roles, women like Maj Gen Ahmed now have the opportunity to excel in various military duties.
President Uhuru Kenyatta, in promoting Maj Gen Ahmed to major general in 2018, expressed his confidence in her ability to serve as a positive role model for women in Kenya. He urged her to prove that there are no limits for women in the armed forces.
Despite facing discouragement from some family members who believed the military was not a suitable profession for women, Maj Gen Ahmed remained determined to make a difference in her life and career. Inspired by her uncle’s discipline and hard work in the military, she pursued her aspirations with unwavering dedication.
Maj Gen Fatuma Gaiti Ahmed’s appointment as the first woman to lead Kenya’s air force is not only a personal triumph but also a milestone in the ongoing journey towards gender equality and diversity in the nation’s armed forces.
