Africa-Press – Kenya. Defence Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has concluded a four-day tour in the US, where he outlined Kenya’s commitment to peace efforts and regional stability.
In his keynote speech at the National Defence University in Washington, DC, he emphasised the country’s role as a regional anchor state in East Africa, highlighting the delicate balance it maintains between addressing domestic challenges and contributing significantly to peacekeeping efforts in the region.
The CS underscored the geopolitical complexities, particularly the spillover of instability from neighbouring Somalia, citing the persistent threat of al Shabaab militants.
He mentioned the risks posed to North Eastern and Coastal areas due to the porous border, recalling the 1998 US Embassy bombing in Nairobi as an unfortunate example of the impact of these relations.
Duale highlighted the country’s collaboration with international partners, improved intelligence gathering and strategic operations that have disrupted numerous potential attacks.
“We stand as a testament to our commitment to ensuring the safety and security of our citizens and our friends,” he said.
The CS highlighted Kenya’s commitment to democratic values, citing the robust democratic space anchored by the transformative 2010 Constitution.
“We proudly stand as a pillar of democracy in the Horn of Africa,” he said.
Duale outlined Kenya’s role and efforts in peacekeeping and observer missions in Africa through the Kenya Defence Forces.
“We actively drive diplomatic initiatives, aiming at achieving common positions, silencing the guns and improving humanitarian support in conflict-ridden areas,” he said.
The CS stressed the critical threats the Horn of Africa faces, urging a multifaceted approach.
“Enhanced regional cooperation, capacity building within national security structures and addressing root causes of insecurity are crucial,” he said, acknowledging the international community’s vital role in supporting these efforts.
Duale outlined strategic policy recommendations to address crises in Ethiopia, Somalia and Sudan. He called for collaborative efforts and international support for peace in the affected countries.
The former Garissa North MP’s proposals include mobilising humanitarian assistance in conflict-affected areas, post-conflict reconstruction for economic recovery and redirecting funds for peace and stability in Somalia.
For Sudan, Duale called for diplomatic pressure on the Rapid Support Forces and Sudanese Armed Forces, proposing targeted sanctions for hindering peace efforts.
He highlighted the important role of neighbouring countries and international organisations in coordinating efforts for comprehensive and inclusive peace processes.
With comprehensive policy recommendations taking centre stage, Kenya emerges as a linchpin in the pursuit of peace across the African continent.
The US visit followed the signing of the Defence Cooperation Framework on September 25, in Nairobi, aimed at strengthening the strategic partnership between the two countries.
The framework focuses on expanding cooperation in the fields of defence technology and innovation.
The US has pledged financial and logistical support of up to $100 million (Sh15.9 billion) to bolster the KDF.
Discussions between the two countries covered regional security, counterterrorism measures, climate change impacts, joint training, maritime security and opportunities for professional military academic institutions.
Duale held meetings with acting deputy Secretary of State Victoria Nuland, members of the US National Security Council and senators.
Earlier talks with his US counterpart Lloyd Austin at the Pentagon focused on the implementation of the Defence Cooperation Framework and the need for security and stability in various African regions.
Austin expressed gratitude for Kenya’s role in regional and global security, emphasising the ongoing fight against al Shabab and the need for security and stability in the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandeb.
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