The launch of the Military Wives Association of Kenya (MWAK) Strategic Plan 2026–2030 marks a significant milestone in strengthening the welfare and resilience of Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) families.
Anchored on the theme “Together Walking Far,” the strategy reflects a growing recognition that strong military families are essential to a strong and effective defence force.
Presiding over the event held in Nairobi on 9th May 2026, the Chief of the Defence Forces General Charles Kahariri commended MWAK for its dedication to improving the welfare of military families.
He highlighted the importance of stable family structures in maintaining operational readiness and mission effectiveness within the Defence forces.
The CDF further praised the association’s collaboration with partners and stakeholders, noting that strategic partnerships remain key in expanding access to education, economic opportunities, and social support programmes for military families.
Speaking during the launch, MWAK Chairperson Mrs. Grace Kahariri underscored the central role families play in national security by supporting service personnel both emotionally and socially. She emphasized that the new strategic framework is designed to deepen support systems for military families through sustainable welfare programmes, healthcare outreach, mentorship, education support, partnerships, and economic empowerment initiatives.
Mrs. Kahariri observed that military families often shoulder unique sacrifices and responsibilities that require structured and long-term support. She noted that empowering spouses, widows, veterans, and children not only improves their quality of life but also enhances the morale, focus, and resilience of serving personnel.
“Today, under the theme Together, Walking Far, we launch our Strategic Plan for 2026–2030.
Our vision is clear: To promote the well-being of KDF families.
Our mission is our daily vow: To empower our military families to thrive by championing their needs, fostering connection through dynamic programming, and delivering.
But as our theme reminds us, the journey is long. No one walks it alone. This Strategic Plan is how we walk — together — and how we go far.,” stated Mrs. Kahariri.
Since its establishment in 2021, MWAK has steadily expanded its footprint across the country by championing initiatives aimed at fostering dignity, opportunity, and resilience within the military community. Through mentorship programmes, vocational training, scholarships, and welfare support activities, the association has emerged as a vital pillar in complementing the broader KDF welfare system.
The unveiling of the Strategic Plan 2026–2030 signals MWAK’s intention to institutionalize sustainable welfare programmes that address the evolving needs of military households while reinforcing unity within the defence community. It also reflects the KDF’s broader commitment to people-centred approaches that prioritize welfare, resilience, and social support as critical components of national defence.
The event concluded with the official unveiling of the Strategic Plan and recognition of partners and stakeholders whose continued support has contributed to the success of MWAK programmes and initiatives.
Present during the Launch were General Commanding Officer Central Command (CENTCOM) Maj Gen Nkoimo, MWAK Executive Committee Members, Chief of Compensation and Welfare, Senior Officers, Officers, MWAK Regional Pillar Heads.
The associations partners present were Family Bank/ Family Group Foundation led by the Family Bank Founder Mr. T K Muya, Safaricom Foundation, Kenya Institute of Special Education (KISE), Joyful Women, KCB/ KCB Foundation and BethanKids International.
