New army unit formed after Uhuru wore military uniform

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December 12, 2018 2:14 PM

The last time a new unit was formed was in 1998

President Uhuru Kenyatta with General Samson Mwathethe

President Uhuru Kenyatta on Wednesday surprised members of the public when he wore his

The president donned the apparel as part of a major military function that was to take place at the Nyayo Stadium.

President Kenyatta officially unveiled the 17 Battalion of the Kenya Army when he presented the new unit with its royal purple regimental flag and presidential colours.

According to military protocol, the colours (flags) are the highest honour of any Regiment/Unit and are a well-guarded & treasured possession.

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Colourful Coronation Ceremony

The 17 battalion - also called the Kenya Rifles - will now be able to parade their commissioned flag when they mount a guard of honour.

"The consecration and presentation of the Unit’s Colours to the Battalion marks the unit’s final milestone in its formation.

"When a Unit/Base is designated to troop its Colour, it becomes an honour to the Regiment/Base as it is able to showcase its Colours in a ceremony known as Trooping of the Colour. The Presidential Colour is trooped on special days such as Jamhuri Day," a statement from the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) explained.

Religious leaders prayed and annointed the new colours as troops celebrated the recognition of the new unit which is based in Nyali, Mombasa.