ABOUT THE FOUNDER

Lt. Gen. (Rtd) Adan K. Mulata

Founder & Executive Chairman, PPI Africa

His passion

Lt. Gen. (Rtd) Adan K. Mulata is a distinguished military leader, visionary strategist, and the Founder & Executive Chairman of Prospect Peace Institute – Africa (PPI-A). Born in Marsabit to a humble pastoralist family, he overcame immense challenges to become the first Borana pilot in Kenya and a highly accomplished three-star General. He is only the second Borana community member to achieve this prestigious rank. With a remarkable military career spanning 43 years, Lt. Gen. Mulata is a highly respected authority in defense, national security, conflict resolution, and strategic governance. His extensive experience and steadfast commitment to sustainable peace make him a pivotal force in shaping Africa’s security and governance landscape.

Background

Lt. Gen. (Rtd) Adan K. Mulata began his distinguished military career in the Kenya Air Force on 19th May 1979, where he demonstrated exceptional skills and leadership, quickly gaining recognition for his expertise and discipline. His early years in service were marked by significant contributions to Kenya’s defence and aviation sectors. He was pivotal in establishing the International Peace Support Training Centre (IPSTC) and Humanitarian Peace Support School (HPSS) institutions for peacebuilding and conflict management and developing skills for peacekeepers at all levels. 

He acquired peacekeeping knowledge early and rose to be a UN-certified trainer and participated in mission-oriented training for the UN Missions in Sierra Leone, Eritrea, and at the ILO Centre in Turin Italy among others. He taught in both the Defence Staff and the National Defence College where he developed an all-round capacity and knowledge. As Colonel, in charge of Operations and Training at both the Kenya Airforce (KAF) and the Defence Headquarters he was able to manage and make significant contributions to military education and institutional development.

His Values

His extensive expertise in governance, conflict management, and security sector reforms further strengthened his impact in both military and civilian spheres. The above laid the foundation for his future leadership roles. Rising through the ranks, he ascended to the esteemed position of Lieutenant General, the second-highest rank in Kenya’s military. He played a key role in military operations, training, and strategic planning, serving as Assistant Chief of Defence Forces in charge of Operations, Plans, Doctrine, and Training.

His Mission

His leadership was instrumental in shaping national and regional security policies, including Kenya’s participation in the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) and contributions to the Inter-Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD), the East African Standby Force (EASF), and Great Lakes peace efforts. Additionally, he chaired the multi-agency team that developed Kenya’s National Security Policy and Strategy, a landmark blueprint that continues to guide national and regional security frameworks.

His Experience

His academic achievements include three master’s degrees in International Studies, Social Transformation, and Peace Studies. He also undertook specialized training, including the Strategic Intelligence Course, the Strategic Counter-Terrorism and Crisis Management Seminar in the UK, and the Advanced Staff Course at the Royal Air Force, UK. Additionally, he participated in counter-terrorism, disaster response, and peace support exercises across the East African region, contributing to key national and regional security discussions.

Beyond his military service, Lt. Gen. Mulata was appointed to the inaugural Kenya Space Agency Board and chaired the Ministerial Procurement Advisory Board. He has also authored several research papers on peacekeeping, governance, and conflict resolution, demonstrating his commitment to security and development. His deep understanding of human security at global, regional, and national levels has cemented his legacy as a strategic thinker and a key figure in Kenya’s security governance.

Recognition & Honors

He was awarded medals of honor such as the Order of the Grand Warrior of Kenya (OGW) for courage, Chief of the Order of the Burning Spear (CBS), and the Moran of the Order of the Golden Heart of Kenya (MGH) for leadership among many others. He is also the Winner of ‘Andover Essay Prize, RAF Bracknell UK.

Why PPI-Africa

Upon retiring from the military, Lt. Gen. Mulata founded Prospect Peace Institute – Africa (PPI-A), driven by his vision of a secure, peaceful, and resilient continent. Leveraging his vast experience and strategic partnerships, PPI-A has emerged as a premier hub for innovative security solutions, governance best practices, and conflict resolution strategies.

Under his leadership, the institute fosters collaboration among local and international stakeholders, contributing meaningfully to Africa’s stability and peacebuilding efforts. Lt. Gen. Mulata’s firm dedication to peace, security, and governance continues to inspire future generations of leaders. His legacy as a courageous officer, strategic thinker, and peace advocate positions him as a key figure in shaping Africa’s future.