Retired Daniel Opande has unveiled his new book, In Pursuit of Peace in Africa, offering a detailed account of his decades-long military career and his role in peacebuilding efforts across the continent.
The book was presented during a special event at the National Defence University–Kenya (NDU-K), where senior military leaders, scholars and defence experts gathered to reflect on Opande’s legacy and the lessons captured in the memoir.
Speaking during the event, NDU-K Vice-Chancellor David Tarus described the autobiography as a rich source of knowledge drawn from years of leadership, military service and regional security engagement.
According to Tarus, the book will serve as an important reference for scholars, policymakers and security practitioners seeking deeper insights into strategic leadership and defence management.
He noted that hosting such engagements aligns with the university’s mission of promoting research, strategic thinking and knowledge sharing within the defence and security sector.
Tarus also urged members of the defence community to cultivate a culture of documenting professional experiences, saying this would help strengthen knowledge and institutional memory in the security sector.
During his presentation, Opande shared reflections from the memoir, which traces his journey from his early days in the Kenyan military to senior command roles and involvement in major peacekeeping missions across Africa.
The book highlights his participation in conflict resolution and peace processes in countries including Namibia, Mozambique, Liberia and Sierra Leone, where he contributed to international peacekeeping and mediation efforts.
Opande emphasized that peace remains a critical pillar for national development, warning that modern security threats require increased vigilance, knowledge and cooperation among nations. He added that sustainable socio-economic growth can only be achieved in an environment of stability and security.
Also speaking at the event, Joyce Sitienei said the book offers valuable lessons for both scholars and security professionals, particularly on the role of dialogue, negotiation and regional cooperation in resolving conflicts.
Sitienei expressed hope that the memoir will inspire current and future leaders by sharing practical experiences drawn from Opande’s service as a soldier, peacekeeper and mediator in complex conflict environments.
The event was also attended by deputy vice-chancellors, faculty members and staff, who engaged the retired general in discussions on leadership, diplomacy and the role of the military in advancing peace and security in Africa.
