On 17 November 2025, Kenya Navy joined other Kenyan maritime partners in the launch of Exercise Usalama Baharini 2 at the Bandari Maritime Academy in Mombasa.
Usalama Baharini is a major maritime security exercise conducted by European Union Naval Force (EUNAVFOR) Operation ATALANTA. The exercise aims to improve interoperability, strengthen operational readiness and bolster joint efforts to address maritime threats within the Western Indian Ocean.
The exercise was officially opened by Ms. Cristina Barrios, Head of Political Press and Information at the European Union (EU) Delegation to Kenya.
In her remarks, Ms. Barrios commended the continued cooperation between the EU and the Kenyan maritime partners.
“The European Union remains committed to supporting Kenyan agencies to enhance their maritime security capabilities. This exercise demonstrates the power of teamwork and shared commitment among participating partners. We are not only United by strong institutional frameworks grounded in international law but also by our practical cooperation to keep our maritime spaces safe,” she said.
On his part, Brigadier Mohamed Shemote, Commander Kenya Navy Fleet, reaffirmed the importance of the exercise in enhancing collaboration and interoperability among participating partners.
“This exercise will sharpen our capacity to detect, deter and respond to a wide spectrum of maritime threats including piracy, smuggling, illegal fishing and terrorism. Exercise Usalama Baharini provides a vital platform for collaboration between naval forces, law enforcement agencies and regional partners. Through this unity of effort, we strengthen our readiness and build a more resilient shield over our shared waters,” said Brigadier Shemote.
The opening ceremony was also attended by Rear Admiral Paolo Fantoni, Deputy Commander EUNAVFOR Operation ATALANTA. Kenyan participants included Kenya Navy, Kenya Coast Guard Services, Kenya Maritime Authority, Kenya Ports Authority amongst other maritime partners. International partners included International Criminal Police Organization and United Nations Office On Drugs And Crime.
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