U.S. backs Kenya to secure Indian Ocean waters and coast after navy chief’s visit
U.S. backs Kenya to secure Indian Ocean waters and coast after navy chief’s visit
The United States and Kenya have continued to strengthen their military relationship through the visit of a United States Navy official, with the aim of enhancing Kenya’s coastline and borders.
Ambassador George Wikoff, a four-star United States Navy officer currently serving as the commander of U.S. Naval Forces Europe and Africa and Allied Joint Force Command Naples, on March 31, met Kenyan military leaders in Nairobi and Mombasa to strengthen cooperation on maritime security, counterterrorism efforts, and regional stability across the Western Indian Ocean and Somali border.
According to George Wikoff, the visit signalled renewed American interest in Kenya’s role as a key security partner in East Africa, with both Kenya and the US sharing a common interest in protecting their territories.
“Kenya is a critical maritime and security partner in East Africa and the Western Indian Ocean. Our cooperation is built on shared interests and shared sacrifices, and together we are working to promote stability, protect vital sea lanes, and counter those who threaten regional security,” stated Wikoff.
According to KDF, the talks in Nairobi with the Chief of the Defence Forces of Kenya, Charles Muriu Kahariri, focused on long-term defence cooperation, including modernising Kenya’s military, improving coordination, and aligning security efforts with broader economic and diplomatic goals shared by both countries.
On the other hand, in Mombasa, discussions with Paul Owuor Otieno, Operational Research and Strategic Procurement Officer, centred on strengthening Kenya’s naval capabilities, improving information sharing, and enhancing the country’s ability to detect and respond to threats along its coastline.
Both sides reviewed progress from joint naval exercises under Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) 2026, which brought together regional partners to improve coordination, test readiness, and address security challenges affecting trade routes and coastal communities.
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Wikoff noted the impact of the exercises, affirming that CARAT 2026 demonstrates the potential for joint collaborations between Kenya and US forces, pointing to improved preparedness against emerging threats in the region.
“CARAT 2026 shows what we can achieve when we train and operate together. By integrating our capabilities and sharing information, we are better prepared to secure the maritime domain, disrupt illicit networks, and respond swiftly when threats emerge,” stressed Wikoff.
A major highlight of the visit was the commissioning of a new Marine Range and Close Quarters Battle training complex at the Kenya Navy Base in Mtongwe, Mombasa County, designed to boost the skills of Kenyan marine commandos.
The Ksh97 million facility includes a shooting range, training structures, and rehearsal spaces designed to sharpen combat readiness, improve response to security threats, and support operations along Kenya’s coastline and nearby waters.
The investment is part of a broader U.S. programme to build Kenya’s defence capacity, ensuring local forces are better equipped and trained to handle evolving threats without relying heavily on external intervention.
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