The Kenya Navy Base in Manda Bay, Lamu County, has proved its commitment to welfare and inclusivity by launching a fully furnished Gender Sensitive Office and new maternity equipment.
The ceremony, which was held on Wednesday, December 10, was presided by Brigadier Lazarus Wafula, Commander KNB Manda Bay, and Commander Senior Grade Gaard-Frederiksen, who is the Danish Liaison Officer. The initiative was realized through a strategic partnership between Kenya and the Kingdom of Denmark.
Brigadier Wafula said the milestone was a reflection of sustained efforts to build the institutional capacity and welfare of Navy personnel. “Today’s milestone has been achieved through the sustained partnership between the Government of Kenya and the Kingdom of Denmark, strengthening institutional capacity,” he said.
The newly established Gender Sensitive Office will centralize gender-responsive programs, welfare initiatives, and leadership inclusions. Its establishment was a reassurance of the resolve of the Navy to ensure dignity and welfare that are in tune with operational demands.
Meanwhile, the maternity equipment replacement is expected to further improve health services to Navy people and their families, reinforcing the view that operational readiness is underpinned by a healthy, supported force.
Commander Senior Grade Gaard-Frederiksen underscored the longstanding partnership between Denmark and Kenya. He emphasized that their engagement aims at strengthening the capacity of Kenya Defence Forces in countering violent extremism, with a key element being gender inclusion. “Security operations mean more than guns and bullets; gender inclusion and trust among the local communities are essential enablers of stability and mission success,” he said.
Brigadier Wafula added that the Gender Sensitive Office would create an environment that is safe, inclusive, and supportive of all personnel-an essential element in operational efficiency.
This development constitutes the most critical push in a journey the Kenya Navy has undertaken towards making welfare, inclusion, and gender concerns core aspects of the operational and institutional framework.
