Lieutenant Colonel Damaris Agnetta is a distinguished Kenyan military officer serving in the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) under the Kenya Army division. She made national headlines on October 4, 2022, when President William Ruto appointed her as the Deputy Aide-de-Camp (ADC) to the Head of State. In this capacity, she deputizes Colonel Fabian Lengusuranga, who succeeded Brigadier Timothy Stelu Lekolol, the former ADC to retired President Uhuru Kenyatta.
Agnetta’s appointment was a historic and progressive move, as she became the second woman in Kenya’s history to hold the position of Deputy ADC — following Colonel Rachael Nduta, who was the first female ADC appointed in 2018. Nduta was later promoted to full Colonel and reassigned to the Department of Defence (DoD).
Lieutenant Colonel Agnetta has built a reputation for discipline, loyalty, and tactical excellence, making her one of the most respected female officers in the Kenya Army.
Career and Military Service
Lt. Colonel Damaris Agnetta was commissioned into the Kenya Army in 2003, beginning her service as an artillery officer. Over two decades of dedication and professional excellence, she rose through the ranks to achieve her current position.
Her career trajectory reflects the rigorous training and leadership that defines Kenya’s armed forces. As an artillery specialist, she has overseen combat readiness operations, defensive strategy coordination, and technical command duties within the Kenya Army. Her promotion to Lieutenant Colonel underscores her outstanding record and commitment to military professionalism.
Agnetta’s current role as Deputy ADC is both prestigious and symbolic. The position of ADC (Aide-de-Camp) requires exceptional discipline, loyalty, and alertness, as the officer accompanies the President in all official duties. The ADC is responsible for ceremonial protocol, presidential security coordination, and official military representation at the highest level.
According to Colonel Esther Wanjiku, the KDF spokesperson, “An ADC is a highly-trained senior military officer who is required to be part of the president’s itinerary at all times.”
Education Background
Lieutenant Colonel Agnetta holds a Bachelor’s Degree, making her one of the many academically accomplished officers in the Kenya Defence Forces. Her education complements her technical and operational military expertise, enabling her to blend academic understanding with tactical command efficiency.
Her training within the KDF emphasizes discipline, strategy, artillery specialization, and leadership under pressure — skills that have defined her success as a career officer and presidential aide.
Age and Rank Progression
While her exact age has not been made public, Damaris Agnetta is estimated to be in her early 40s. Her steady rise within the ranks of the Kenya Army demonstrates both experience and merit.
She currently holds the rank of Lieutenant Colonel, which places her four levels below the rank of General — the highest position in the KDF hierarchy. The ranking order is Colonel, Brigadier, Lieutenant General, and General. The KDF’s current top commander is General Robert Kibochi, serving as the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF).
To qualify as an ADC or Deputy ADC, one must hold the rank of Lieutenant Colonel or higher, demonstrating the trust and responsibility placed upon her.
Family and Personal Life
Lieutenant Colonel Damaris Agnetta keeps her personal and family life private, in keeping with the military’s culture of discretion. Those close to her describe her as humble, disciplined, and mission-driven, with deep patriotism and devotion to service.
Her story continues to inspire many young women in Kenya who aspire to join the military or pursue leadership roles in national defense. As one of the few female officers to serve directly at the Office of the President, Agnetta embodies courage, dedication, and progress in Kenya’s evolving defence landscape.
