EASF Bids Farewell to Outgoing Staff and Welcomes New Members

Nairobi, Kenya – Thursday, 30 October 2025 – The Eastern Africa Standby Force (EASF) held a formal handover and farewell ceremony at its Secretariat in Nairobi to honor outgoing staff members and welcome new officers, in line with the EASF Rotation Matrix 2025–2029. The event was presided over by Brigadier (Rtd) Paul Kahuria Njema, the Director of EASF.

In his address, Brig. (Rtd) Njema expressed deep appreciation for the outstanding service and dedication of the outgoing officers, commending their contributions to the organization’s mission of promoting peace and security in the Eastern Africa region. He encouraged them to remain ambassadors of EASF beyond their tenure and to continue supporting the ideals of unity and cooperation. “Each member has played a vital role in our mission’s success. Through their dedication, professionalism, and unwavering commitment, we have upheld the values and objectives of EASF,” Brig. Njema said. “Together, we will continue to build a safer and more prosperous future for the Eastern Africa region.”

EASF bid farewell to several senior officers who completed their tour of duty. These included Brigadier General Domitien Kabisa from Burundi, who served as Head of the Peace Operations Department; Colonel Mohamed Barkat from Djibouti, who served as Head of Administration and Finance; Mr. Vincent Didon from Seychelles, who served as the AU/EASF Liaison Officer; Lieutenant Colonel Denis Kiiza from Rwanda, who served as Acting Chief of Staff/N2 N3; Dr. Leah Barasa from Kenya, who served as Head of the Civilian Component; Mr. Irchad Ousseine, who served as Executive Assistant to the Director; and Warrant Officer II Peter Maroa from Kenya, who served as Protocol Officer.

In their farewell remarks, the departing officers expressed gratitude to the EASF Director, management, and staff for their support and cooperation throughout their tenure. They commended the organization’s efforts in fostering regional peace and integration and underscored the importance of teamwork, professionalism, and collaboration in achieving EASF’s objectives.

As part of the leadership rotation, EASF also welcomed new senior staff members who will assume key roles within the organization. These include Mr. Souef Kamalidini from Comoros, appointed as Head of Administration and Finance; Colonel (Rtd) Getahun Abebe Gabre from Ethiopia, appointed as AU/EASF Liaison Officer; Ms. Noowe Kakono Monalisa from Uganda, appointed as Head of the Civilian Component; and Warrant Officer I Joseph Wanyahoro from Kenya, appointed as Protocol Officer. 

Brig. (Rtd) Njema extended his best wishes to the new officers, expressing confidence that their experience and dedication will further strengthen the organization’s operational capacity and reinforce its commitment to regional peace and stability. The event concluded with a celebration recognizing the achievements of the outgoing staff and reaffirming EASF’s unity of purpose and shared vision for a peaceful and secure Eastern Africa.