Kenya and the European Union (EU) have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening security and defence cooperation in response to evolving threats posed by terrorism, transnational organised crime, maritime insecurity and geopolitical tensions across East Africa and the Western Indian Ocean.
These shared priorities took centre stage during the Nairobi Road to Schuman Forum, which brought together senior Kenyan, EU and international representatives to deliberate on emerging security threats, common strategic interests and coordinated approaches to advancing regional peace and stability.
The Kenyan delegation was led by the Cabinet Secretary for Defence, Hon. Soipan Tuya, accompanied by the Commander Kenya Navy, Major General Paul Otieno.
Addressing the forum, CS Tuya reaffirmed Kenya’s longstanding partnership with the EU, emphasising the importance of translating shared security priorities into practical cooperation, enhanced operational capabilities and sustainable regional security outcomes.
“As we look forward to the forthcoming Fifth Kenya-EU Security and Defence Dialogue, we remain committed to translating our shared priorities into practical cooperation and meaningful outcomes. Kenya will continue to work closely with the European Union and regional partners towards a safer, more stable and resilient East Africa and Western Indian Ocean,” she stated.
During a panel discussion on maritime security in the Red Sea and Western Indian Ocean, Major General Otieno called for a coordinated, whole-of-government approach anchored in clearly defined institutional mandates, effective inter-agency collaboration and sustained international partnerships.
He underscored the need to enhance maritime deterrence through sustained patrols and presence at sea, supported by robust Maritime Domain Awareness capabilities and interconnected national and regional information-sharing systems.
The Commander further highlighted the importance of integrating naval operations centres, coast guards, civilian maritime authorities and regional coordination mechanisms to improve surveillance, information sharing and timely responses to maritime threats.
He also emphasised the need for effective legal frameworks to ensure accountability for maritime offences, alongside targeted training and capacity building to enhance interoperability among regional navies, coast guards and other maritime security agencies.
The forum reinforced the importance of collective security, coordinated maritime operations and sustained strategic partnerships in confronting increasingly complex and interconnected threats.
Kenya’s continued engagement with the EU reflects its commitment to advancing practical security cooperation, safeguarding vital maritime trade routes and promoting a secure, stable and prosperous East Africa and Western Indian Ocean.
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