This archive report was first published on 11 November 2019.
On November 11, 2019, Maj Gen (rtd) Duncan Wachira, the seventh commander of the Kenya Air Force, passed away after a long illness and treatment at Nairobi Hospital.
Wachira, a meticulous pilot and logistician, was known for his strict cost-cutting measures, which included capping fuel consumption at 20 litres per vehicle and requiring written justification for any additional fuel.
His tenure as Air Force commander, which began in 1982, was marked by a series of reforms aimed at restoring the service's self-belief and efficiency.
One of his most notable initiatives was the establishment of the Air Force Qualified Flying Instructors programme, which trained African instructors to give advanced training to African pilots, reducing the need for expensive foreign training.
Wachira's leadership style was characterized by his no-nonsense approach, which earned him respect from his peers but also instilled fear in some of his subordinates.
Despite his tough exterior, Wachira was a dedicated and competent officer who performed above and beyond his duties, earning him every promotion he received.
His legacy extends beyond his military accomplishments, as he played a crucial role in restoring the Kenya Air Force to its former glory after the 1982 attempted coup.
Today, his family is being taken care of by the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), and his funeral plans are being handled by a committee established by Defence headquarters and his colleagues in the retired Air Force fraternity.
