Kenya and Netherlands Enhance Defence Cooperation Through Bilateral Engagement

Hon. Soipan Tuya, Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Defence, held talks with Mr. Ruben Brekelmans, Minister for Defence of the Netherlands, resulting in a signed Letter of Intent to strengthen Defence Cooperation. The partnership focuses on areas such as Peace Support Operations and Artificial Intelligence. Both leaders emphasized commitment to military capacity building and enhancing peacekeeping missions.

The Cabinet Secretary for Defence of Kenya, Hon. Soipan Tuya, convened bilateral talks with Mr. Ruben Brekelmans, the Minister for Defence of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, at the International Peace Support and Training Center in Nairobi. Both parties formalized their discussions by signing a Letter of Intent intended to bolster Defence Cooperation.

This agreement focuses on several key areas including Peace Support Operations, Artificial Intelligence and Cyber Security, Maritime Security, Climate Security, Military Training, and the exchange of best practices. Hon. Tuya emphasized the importance of this collaboration, highlighting the ongoing work towards a Defence Cooperation Agreement (DCA) and a Status of Force Agreement (SOFA) through mutual review of drafts.

In her remarks, Hon. Tuya indicated that these signed documents reflect a commitment to formalize future engagements. She noted the significance of capacity building for the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) through various military programs and activities.

Mr. Brekelmans reiterated the Netherlands’ dedication to enhancing the capabilities of the KDF, acknowledging Kenya’s vital role in maintaining regional peace and stability. He expressed mutual commitment to improving intelligence-led peacekeeping missions globally and shaping the responsible deployment of Artificial Intelligence in military operations through international collaboration.

Also participating in the talks were Dr. Patrick Mariru, Principal Secretary for Defence; Lieutenant General John Omenda, Vice Chief of Defence Forces; Major General Alfred Leuria, Assistant Chief of Defence Forces; Brigadier Joyce Sitienei, Director of the International Peace Support and Training Center; Brigadier Samuel Kimani, Chief of Strategic Plans and Policies; alongside senior military officers from both nations.

In conclusion, the bilateral talks between Kenya and the Netherlands mark a significant step in enhancing Defence Cooperation, focusing on vital areas such as cyber security and peace support operations. Both nations reaffirmed their commitment to collaborating effectively for regional stability and security, while formalizing their engagement through key agreements.

Original Source: www.mod.go.ke