The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) has called for increased attention to the well-being of military personnel and their families, particularly focusing on the younger generation. Frequent relocations and deployments have been identified as major challenges that disrupt family stability, affect children’s education, and complicate relationships between service members and their loved ones.
Kenya Navy Commander Major General Paul Otieno highlighted these issues during the 59th Apostolat Militaire International General Assembly 2024. The assembly, themed “Military Service with a Human Face: Challenges and Opportunities for Young Military Families,” addresses the impact of military life from a Christian perspective and is recognized by the Vatican’s dicastery for laity, family, and life.
The nine-day forum, attended by delegates from 18 countries across four continents, aims to generate impactful ideas and solutions for shaping future policies and fostering a culture of genuine support and resilience for military families.
“There is a pressing need to support both service members and their families, who make sacrifices alongside them and face the unique pressures of military life,” Major Otieno said. He emphasized the importance of creating a stable and compassionate environment to honor the sacrifices of service members and their families.
“We live in a world of constant change, where circumstances are often volatile, uncertain, and complex. These changes are particularly challenging for our military personnel,” Major Otieno added. He noted that the continuous changes have a significant impact on young families, who are struggling to adapt to the demands of military service and the unpredictability of the modern world.
Major Otieno urged delegates to actively participate in discussions, especially during breakout groups, to achieve meaningful outcomes for military families across the country.
