Taveta Pays Tribute to Lt. Col. James Collins J. Kimaro, Kenya Navy’s First Kenyan Commander

Taveta is commemorating the legacy of Lieutenant Colonel James Collins J. Kimaro, a distinguished Kenyan military officer remembered for his historic contribution to the country’s naval leadership.

Kimaro made history on November 1, 1972, when he took over command of the Kenya Navy, becoming the first Kenyan officer to lead the service after it had previously been commanded by Royal Navy officers.

He would go on to serve until February 11, 1978, overseeing the transition towards a fully Kenyan-led naval service and strengthening national control over the country’s maritime defence.

President Jomo Kenyatta greets Lt. Col. James Collins Kimaro upon his appointment as Kenya Navy Commander, at State House, Mombasa, on December 29, 1972.

According to official Ministry of Defence records, Kimaro served for more than five years before being succeeded by Major General Eliud Simon Mbilu.

His appointment marked an important chapter in the development of Kenya’s military institutions, as leadership responsibilities increasingly shifted to Kenyan officers following independence.

His contribution continues to be recognised through the naming of Lieutenant Colonel Kimaro Stadium at the Kenya Navy Base in Mtongwe, Mombasa.

His recognition in Taveta offers an opportunity to reflect on the contribution of military pioneers whose service helped shape Kenya’s defence institutions and national history.

Lt. Colonel Kimaro pictured here, next to General (Rtd) Kibwana, in this photo of Kenya Navy’s first Kenyan Officers. Lt. Colonel Kimaro was the first Kenyan to command the Kenya Navy

According to the Kenyan Ministry of Defence:

• Position: Commander of the Kenya Navy.
• Assumed office: 1 November 1972.
• Left office: 11 February 1978.
• Tenure: Approximately five years and three months.
• Predecessor: W. A. E. Hall, a Royal Navy officer.
• Successor: Major General Eliud Simon Mbilu.

He died in a road accident in 1978, shortly after completing his tenure as Navy Commander.

Sources : Kenya Ministry of Defence – Official list of Kenya Navy Commanders.

A History of the Kenya Navy and Maritime Security.

Kenya Navy – Ministry of Defence news archive