The United States Africa Command (U.S. AFRICOM) has generously provided the Kenyan Defence Forces (KDF) with personal protective equipment valued at more than Sh.220 million ($1.38 million).
The donation, presented at Nairobi’s Kahawa Barracks on Tuesday, consists of 6,730 advanced pieces of gear, including soft body armor, ballistic helmets designed to withstand small arms fire, and ballistic plates offering protection against heavier ammunition.
This equipment is intended to enhance the safety capabilities of KDF personnel engaged in counterterrorism and peacekeeping operations.
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During the handover ceremony, Major General Juma Mwinyika, the Eastern Command General Officer Commanding (GOC), expressed confidence that this donation would significantly support the military in fulfilling its crucial responsibilities.
He emphasized the importance of a positive partnership, stating, “I can’t overemphasize the goodwill that is here in this partnership.
What is left is for us at the tactical and operational level is to do much more. At the strategic level, we have good support from the United States.”
Major General Kenneth Ekman from U.S. AFRICOM highlighted that the grant underscores the United States’ dedication to assisting its international partners in enhancing security.
He mentioned, “We’re honored to be able to fulfill one of the Kenya Defence Forces’ priority requests to U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin during his recent historic visit in September 2023, the first visit to Kenya by a U.S. Secretary of Defense in 47 years.”
The United States has reiterated its commitment to working collaboratively with African partners to advance security, prosperity, and the well-being of people across the continent.
