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EU council gives Sh2.7 billion in first assistance measure for KDF

Defence Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale interacts with Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) troops stationed in Kismayu, Somalia, during a visit on December 31, 2023. (Photo: Defence ministry)

By Mwangi Maina | Monday, June 24, 2024

This measure aims to protect Kenya's territorial integrity, sovereignty, and civilian population from both internal and external threats, particularly along the border with Somalia.

The Council of the European Union on Monday approved a Sh2.7 billion (€20 million) assistance measure under the European Peace Facility to enhance the operational capabilities of the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF).

This measure, the first for the KDF, aims to protect Kenya's territorial integrity, sovereignty, and civilian population from both internal and external threats, particularly along the border with Somalia, where terror group Al-Shabaab's operations have intensified.

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The European Peace Facility will fund the procurement of equipment, supplies, and services, including necessary technical training.

The key beneficiaries are the Kenya Army infantry combat units and their support units, which will receive tactical unmanned aerial vehicles, non-lethal interceptors and jammers.

They will also get systems to counter improvised explosive devices, electronic warfare tools, cross-country tactical military vehicles, and a mobile medical post.

To bolster the Kenya Navy, marine units will be equipped with night vision goggles, life vests, and specific personal protective gear.

The support resulted from the joint security and defence consultations under the EU-Kenya Strategic Dialogue.

"This support is a concrete deliverable of the joint security and defence consultations held under the EU-Kenya Strategic Dialogue," the council said in a statement.

"By investing in the capacities and capabilities of its defence forces, the EU reaffirms its support to Kenya as a pillar of peace and stability in the region."

The European Peace Facility, established in March 2021, finances actions under the common foreign and security policy to prevent conflicts, preserve peace, and strengthen international security and stability.

It enables the EU to support the military and defence capacities of third states, as well as regional and international organisations.