Kenyan-born Joan Ochuodho has been appointed the new Station Commander of RAF Wittering in the United Kingdom, becoming one of the rare African officers to rise to a senior leadership role in the Royal Air Force.
Her selection is seen as a recognition of her dedication, leadership, and more than two decades of service.
Ochuodho joined the RAF in 2003 and has built a career encompassing operational leadership, administrative roles, and personnel management. At RAF Wittering, she will oversee a team of military personnel, civilians, and contractors, ensuring that the base continues to fulfill critical defence and support responsibilities.
She takes over from Wing Commander Nikki Duncan, who leaves the station after achieving major infrastructure developments and strengthening relationships with nearby communities.
The RAF Families Federation highlighted the transition on X, saying, “Exciting news! Wing Commander Joan Ochuodho is the new Station Commander at RAF Wittering, succeeding Wing Commander Nikki Duncan. Huge thanks to Wing Commander Duncan for her amazing leadership and community support.”
Wing Commander Duncan reflected fondly on her tenure, emphasizing the importance of people and community collaboration.
“My time at RAF Wittering has been nothing short of amazing. It has always been about the people, our talented, committed personnel and the incredible support we receive from the communities of Wittering, Stamford, Peterborough, Rutland and Leicester,” she said.
“Leading this Station has been one of the greatest honours of my career, and I am deeply grateful for the warmth, professionalism and spirit shown by everyone here. RAF Wittering will always hold a special place in my heart.”
For Ochuodho, assuming command of the station is both a privilege and an opportunity to build on the work of her predecessor.
“I have the honour and privilege of leading Royal Air Force Wittering over the next couple of years, taking over from an exceptional officer. I look forward to the Challenges and opportunities ahead. Grateful for the opportunities I continue to enjoy being part of the Royal Air Force (RAF). Proud to Serve,” she said.
She also expressed enthusiasm for engaging with the local community and gratitude for Duncan’s support.
“I am also very much looking forward to working closely with our friends and neighbours in the local community. My sincere thanks go to Wg Cdr Duncan, not only for providing such a thorough handover, but also for her hard work and commitment throughout her tenure as Station Commander.”
Born in 1979 in Kenya, Ochuodho is the eleventh of twelve children. According to the Royal British Legion, her father was a civil engineer, and her mother ran small businesses to support the family.
These early experiences instilled in her discipline, perseverance, and a strong work ethic that shaped her professional journey.
After moving to the UK, she joined the Royal Air Force and has served for over 20 years, taking part in humanitarian missions, conflict-zone deployments, and diverse operational and administrative roles.
Her contributions include mentoring junior officers and helping cultivate future leadership within the RAF.
RAF Wittering, located in Cambridgeshire, is a strategic base providing logistics, engineering, and personnel support for UK military operations. As Station Commander, Ochuodho will be responsible for overall operational leadership, personnel welfare, training, infrastructure, security, logistics, and guiding junior officers.
Beyond her military duties, she serves on the RAF Football Association Board of Trustees and represents the association on the National Football Association Council. She is married and has two sons.
Her appointment resonates particularly with the Kenyan diaspora and serves as inspiration for women aspiring to leadership roles in male-dominated sectors like the military.
