Kenya’s Defence Cabinet Secretary, Aden Duale, had a meeting with the United States Secretary of Defence, Lloyd Austin, on Wednesday.
This meeting followed the signing of a defense cooperation framework during Austin’s visit to Kenya last September.
The meeting took place at the Pentagon, which is the headquarters of the United States Department of Defence, in Virginia.
The discussion primarily focused on the significance of the strategic partnership between the U.S. and Kenya.
In a statement released by the U.S. Department of Defence, Secretary Austin expressed gratitude to Kenya for its role in enhancing regional and global security.
He particularly acknowledged Kenya’s collaboration with the U.S. in countering the threat posed by al-Shabab, an extremist group operating in Somalia.
Was hosted by @SecDef Lloyd Austin III at the Pentagon where we discussed a host of issues on the implementation of the Defence Cooperation Framework between the U.S. and Kenya, on strategic partnership. pic.twitter.com/WzKiIUWCXO
— Hon. Aden Duale, EGH (@HonAdenDuale) February 8, 2024
“Kenya is a crucial ally in addressing various shared threats and promoting security in East Africa and beyond,” Austin stated.
Al-Shabaab has carried out numerous attacks in Kenya, including the 2013 Westgate shopping mall attack in Nairobi, where 67 individuals lost their lives.
Additionally, the group was responsible for the tragic attack on Garissa University College in 2015, which resulted in the deaths of 148 people.
Secretary Austin emphasized the importance of continuing efforts to combat al-Shabab and to ensure security and stability in regions like the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandeb.
“We remain committed to working closely with Kenya to achieve our mutual security objectives,” Austin affirmed.
“Our partnership enhances our capacity to counter threats, combat global terrorism, and extend humanitarian aid when necessary.”
Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to collaborating on addressing common regional challenges.
During the meeting, CS Duale echoed Secretary Austin’s appreciation for the strong ties between Kenya and the U.S. He pledged ongoing support for U.S.-led initiatives in the Red Sea and expressed Kenya’s backing for Ukraine.
“I am eager to further strengthen our cooperation, which is vital not only for addressing immediate security concerns but also for shaping our long-term strategic alliance to promote peace and stability,” Duale remarked.
Duale embarked on a four-day visit to the United States, where he was hosted by Secretary Austin.
The Defence Cooperation Framework signed in September 2023 aims to bolster the strategic partnership between Kenya and the U.S.
It is designed to enhance cooperation in defense technology and innovation, enabling both militaries to effectively respond to evolving security challenges.
As part of his visit, CS Duale is scheduled to meet with Acting Deputy Secretary of State Victoria Nuland, members of the US National Security Council, and senators.
He will also deliver a lecture at the National Defence University in Washington, D.C.
