Kenya-US strengthen security ties as top Commander visits

Kenya and the United States have deepened their collaboration for peace and security in the Horn of Africa following a recent visit by top US Marine Corps commanders in the East African nation.

The delegation of top US commanders was led by General Michael Langley who landed in Nairobi on September 11, 2024, and held a series of meetings with their Kenyan counterparts.

The trip highlighted the broader US 3-D approach of defence, diplomacy, and development to its engagement with Africa.

During the visit, General Langley met Brigadier General Sankale Kiswaa, the deputy commander of the Kenya Navy, and was hosted by the Chief of Kenya’s Defence Forces General Charles Kahariri at Nairobi’s Department of Defence (DoD).

The US delegation, which included AFRICOM’s US Air Force and US Army senior leaders, focused on strengthening bilateral military cooperation, enhancing counterterrorism efforts, and supporting Kenya’s role in promoting regional peace.

Langley’s visit comes at a critical juncture as Kenya continues to solidify its position as the cornerstone of security in East Africa.

The discussions centred on the enhancement of Kenya’s military capabilities, regional counterterrorism operations, and upcoming joint initiatives between AFRICOM and the KDF.

These efforts align with AFRICOM's broader mission and Kenya and the US’s shared goals of bolstering stability by supporting local defence forces and addressing the threats posed by violent extremist organizations such as al-Shabaab.

One of the most significant aspects of Langley’s visit was its focus on defence diplomacy.

By spending three days in Kenya following a prior visit to Somalia, Langley demonstrated AFRICOM's commitment to fostering collaboration with African nations, reinforcing the idea that the US approach to foreign policy in Africa is not solely military, but one that integrates defence, development, and diplomacy.

This comprehensive strategy, known as the 3-D approach, aims to build lasting relationships that contribute to both security and the social and economic development of the region.

AFRICOM’s cooperation with Kenya is about more than just countering immediate threats—it is also about laying the groundwork for long-term regional stability.

US-Kenya joint initiatives in areas such as health security, disaster response, and leadership development reflect a holistic approach to addressing Africa’s challenges.

For instance, during his trip, General Langley engaged with Kenyan youth leaders from the Young African Leadership Initiative (YALI) at the US Embassy.

These discussions underscore AFRICOM's commitment to supporting Kenya’s future leaders, who will play an instrumental role in shaping the country’s direction in both the security and development arenas.

In addition, AFRICOM’s efforts extend to public health, with US Army Civil Affairs Forces working alongside Kenyan NGOs to improve health services in local communities.

This collaborative work, which includes donations to women’s and youth health initiatives and support for emergency operations centres, illustrates how military cooperation can transcend defence and provide critical support to civilian sectors.

The significance of Langley’s visit is also symbolized by his attendance at the U.S. Embassy bombing memorial in Nairobi.

His solemn tribute at the site of the 1998 attack, which claimed 218 lives served as a reminder of the long-standing partnership between the US and Kenya in the fight against terrorism.

This connection has only deepened over the years, linking the tragic events of the bombing to the broader global fight against extremism, including the September 11, 2001 attacks.

For Kenya, this enhanced collaboration with AFRICOM brings tangible benefits. The strengthening of military ties not only boosts national security but also contributes to the broader well-being of the Kenyan people.

US-Kenya partnerships in security, public health, and leadership development create opportunities for growth and stability and reinforce Kenya’s position as a key player on the global stage.

The trip reinforces the idea that the US sees Kenya not just as a partner in counterterrorism, but as an essential ally in addressing the complex challenges of today’s global security landscape.

As the US continues to work with Kenya to confront threats and build capacity, this partnership will be a cornerstone of regional and international peace and stability.

Pearl Matibe is the White House Correspondent, Standard Group. You may follow her on Twitter: @PearlMatibe