Brussels, June 24, 2024 — The European Council has approved an assistance measure under the European Peace Facility, amounting to €20 million, aimed at enhancing the operational capabilities of the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF). This initiative is designed to protect Kenya’s territorial integrity and sovereignty, as well as safeguard its civilian population from internal and external threats.
“The European Union stands firmly with Kenya as it strives to maintain peace and stability in the region,” said Josep Borrell, High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy. “This assistance is a tangible outcome of our strategic dialogue and joint consultations on security and defense.”
The funding will provide essential equipment and services to the KDF, including tactical unmanned aerial vehicles, non-lethal interceptors, and jammers. These resources will enhance the Kenya Army’s infantry combat units and their support teams, enabling them to counter threats more effectively. Additionally, the initiative includes systems to defeat improvised explosive devices, electronic warfare capabilities, cross-country tactical military vehicles, and a mobile medical post.
“The support from the EU is timely and critical,” remarked General Robert Kibochi, Chief of the Kenya Defence Forces. “It will significantly improve our operational readiness, particularly in securing our borders and countering the increased activities of al-Shabaab along the Somali border.”
The measure also extends to the Kenya Navy, equipping naval marine units with night vision goggles, life vests, and specialized personal protective equipment, thereby enhancing their ability to conduct operations under challenging conditions.
This support underscores the EU’s commitment to Kenya as a cornerstone of peace and stability in East Africa. By investing in the capabilities of the KDF, the EU aims to strengthen the country’s capacity to address both internal and external security challenges.
Established in March 2021, the European Peace Facility is designed to finance actions under the EU’s common foreign and security policy, focusing on conflict prevention, peace preservation, and international security enhancement. It enables the EU to fund initiatives that strengthen the military and defense capacities of third states and regional or international organizations.
Editor: Gabriel Ani
