General (Rtd) Jeremiah Mutinda Kianga is one of Kenya’s most respected military leaders. His career spanned over four decades, during which he rose through the ranks to become the Chief of General Staff, the highest military position in Kenya.
Kianga joined the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) at the age of 21 in 1971. He began his military training at the Royal Military College in Sandhurst, United Kingdom, before continuing his education in the USA and India.
Kianga later earned a Master’s degree in Military Science from the University of Kansas.
His career saw him hold various important positions. He served as the Deputy Commander of the Kenya Army until 2003, and then as the full Commander of the Kenya Army until 2005.
In 2005, he was appointed as the Chief of General Staff, succeeding General Joseph Kibwana.
During his time as Chief of General Staff, Kianga led the military through politically turbulent times, especially after the disputed 2007 presidential election. He is credited for ensuring that the military remained neutral and apolitical during this period.
Kianga retired from the military in 2011, after 40 years of service. Following his retirement, he was appointed as the Chairman of the Kenya Railways, a role he continues to hold today.
He has been a strong supporter of President Uhuru Kenyatta but has avoided engaging in politics himself, despite rumors that he might do so.
Despite his significant career in the military and public service, General Kianga has kept a low profile in his retirement years, choosing to focus on enjoying his life after decades of service.
His legacy as a dedicated soldier and leader remains strong, and his contributions to Kenya’s military and civil sectors are widely respected.
By Newsmedia