Photo: Kenya Defence Forces
Retired Lieutenant General Daniel Opande, a veteran of Kenya’s military, has been awarded the prestigious Grand Commander of the Order of the Rokel by the President of Sierra Leone, Julius Maada Bio.
The honour was bestowed during the Sierra Leone Armed Forces Day and Investiture Ceremony on Wednesday, 18 February 2026, in recognition of his pivotal role in restoring peace and stability to the country.
Lt Gen (Rtd) Opande, who served as Force Commander of the United Nations Mission in Sierra Leone (UNAMSIL) from November 2000 to 2003, was instrumental in leading efforts to disarm rebel forces, helping bring an end to the country’s decade-long civil war.
Photo: KDF
In his acceptance remarks, Lt Gen (Rtd) Opande dedicated the award to all Kenyan soldiers currently deployed in peace support missions around the world, highlighting their ongoing sacrifices in conflict zones.
“This award is not mine alone,” he stated, “but belongs to every Kenyan soldier contributing to global peace and security.”
Throughout his distinguished career, Lt Gen (Rtd) Opande commanded military operations in Namibia, Mozambique, and Liberia, further cementing his reputation as a respected figure in international peacekeeping circles.
His contributions have consistently demonstrated Kenya’s leadership and commitment to stabilising conflict-affected regions.
The ceremony coincided with the anniversary of Sierra Leone’s official declaration marking the end of its civil war in 2002.
Armed Forces Day serves to honour the sacrifices of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF), from participation in the World Wars and the 1990s civil war, to current international peacekeeping missions.
The day is marked by military parades and formal celebrations led by the President in his role as Commander-in-Chief.
President Bio’s conferment of the Grand Commander of the Order of the Rokel on Lt Gen (Rtd) Opande underscores the enduring impact of his leadership and Kenya’s broader contribution to international peace efforts.
The award highlights the importance of regional and global cooperation in ending conflict and rebuilding nations.