ADVANCING MARITIME SECURITY THROUGH STRATEGIC COLLABORATION

The shared interest of the European Union (EU) and Kenya in promoting security, stability, and prosperity in the Western Indian Ocean continues to drive a strong partnership in maritime security and capacity development. Faced with common challenges including piracy, maritime terrorism, trafficking, Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing, and threats to international shipping, both partners recognize the importance of strengthening regional maritime capabilities to safeguard critical sea lines of communication and support sustainable economic growth.

In this regard, a delegation from the European Peace Facility (EPF) visited the Kenya Navy to explore opportunities for enhanced partnership and collaboration in support of maritime security objectives. The delegation paid a courtesy call on the Commander Kenya Navy, Major General Paul Otieno where discussions focused on emerging security trends in the Western Indian Ocean and the evolving maritime threat environment. The engagements also examined opportunities for future cooperation in maritime capacity building, training, infrastructure development, and institutional strengthening.

Major General Otieno commended the European Union’s continued support in advancing maritime security initiatives, noting that such partnerships are essential in safeguarding international shipping routes, protecting critical maritime infrastructure, and ensuring regional prosperity.

As part of the visit, the delegation toured the Kenya Naval Training College (KNTC) to gain firsthand insight into its training capabilities and contribution to maritime human capital development. The delegation was briefed on the College’s role in supporting Kenya Navy operational requirements and its vision of evolving into a regional Maritime Centre of Excellence.

The visit reaffirmed the strong partnership between the European Union and Kenya and highlighted the shared commitment to enhancing maritime security, regional stability, and capacity building across the Western Indian Ocean region.