Defense Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale inked a significant agreement on Monday alongside U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III, formalizing a five-year collaborative accord that encompasses the deployment of a Kenyan force to Haiti.
This landmark deal has unlocked a substantial funding commitment of Ksh14.6 billion ($100 million) from the United States, complemented by four other critical benefits: intelligence sharing, airlift support, advanced communications infrastructure, and medical assistance for the mission.
The signing ceremony, conducted at State House, not only solidifies the partnership between the two nations but also serves to bolster Kenya’s defense readiness in the ongoing global fight against terrorism.
During the signing event in Nairobi, Secretary Austin emphasized the strategic significance of the Framework for Defense Cooperation, underlining the value the United States places on its partnership with Kenya in combatting the threat of al-Shabaab.
“Today, the U.S. government acknowledges and deeply appreciates our partnership with Kenya in countering al-Shabaab. We extend our gratitude to Kenya for its leadership role in addressing security challenges both within the region and on a global scale,” stated Secretary Austin.
He further announced the intention of the United States to collaborate with the U.S. Congress to provide up to $100 million in support. Austin called upon other members of the international community to follow Kenya’s commendable example and contribute personnel, equipment, support, training, and funding to the cause.
Secretary Duale underscored that the nation eagerly anticipates approval from the United Nations in preparation for the Haiti mission.
“We are currently awaiting approval from the United Nations Security Council to authorize the deployment of our troops to Haiti,” Duale explained.
He emphasized the framework’s special emphasis on enhancing military cooperation, recognizing that in an increasingly intricate and interconnected world, the seamless synergy between the two military forces is paramount.
As part of this commitment, Kenya has pledged to take the lead in an international mission in Haiti, with plans to deploy 1,000 police officers as a tangible demonstration of its commitment to global peace and security.
