Kenya and Netherlands Strengthen Defence Cooperation through…

The Cabinet Secretary for Defence of Kenya, Hon. Soipan Tuya, held talks with the Netherlands’ Defence Minister, Mr. Ruben Brekelmans, resulting in a signed Letter of Intent to enhance Defence Cooperation. Key focus areas include Peace Support Operations, Artificial Intelligence, and Military Training. Both nations aim to formalize their partnership through ongoing agreements to bolster military capabilities and contribute to regional stability.

On the date mentioned, Hon. Soipan Tuya, the Cabinet Secretary for Defence, engaged in bilateral discussions with Mr. Ruben Brekelmans, the Minister for Defence of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, at the International Peace Support and Training Center located in Karen, Nairobi. During these discussions, a Letter of Intent was signed, outlining a framework for enhanced Defence Cooperation between the two nations.

The signed agreement targets significant domains such as Peace Support Operations, Artificial Intelligence, Cyber Security, Maritime Security, Climate Security, and Military Training. The cooperation also emphasizes the exchange of best practices, signaling a comprehensive partnership meant to strengthen the military capabilities of both countries.

Hon. Tuya expressed her enthusiasm regarding the discussions, noting they serve as a platform to deepen cooperation between Kenya and the Netherlands. She highlighted the ongoing work on a Defence Cooperation Agreement (DCA) and a Status of Force Agreement (SOFA), which are being facilitated through draft exchanges. The importance of these documents was emphasized as a formal commitment to guide future collaborative efforts.

Mr. Brekelmans reaffirmed the Netherlands’ dedication to strengthening the capabilities of the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), acknowledging Kenya’s crucial role in fostering regional peace and stability. He indicated both nations’ mutual commitment to improving the effectiveness of intelligence-led peacekeeping operations globally while advancing responsible applications of artificial intelligence within military contexts.

The meeting was attended by notable officials, including Dr. Patrick Mariru, Principal Secretary for Defence; Lieutenant General John Omenda, Vice Chief of Defence Forces; and Major General Alfred Leuria, Assistant Chief of the Defence Forces overseeing Operations, Doctrine, and Training. Additionally, Brigadier Joyce Sitienei, the Director of the International Peace Support and Training Center, and Brigadier Samuel Kimani, Chief of Strategic Plans and Policies at Defence Headquarters, were also present alongside senior military officers from both delegations.

The bilateral talks between Kenya and the Netherlands mark a significant advancement in Defence Cooperation, focusing on essential areas such as security operations and military training. The signing of the Letter of Intent symbolizes a formal commitment to strengthening partnerships between both nations, enhancing not only military capabilities but also contributing to regional stability through collaborative efforts in peacekeeping and the responsible use of technology.

Original Source: www.mod.go.ke