United States of America (U.S.) President Joe Biden has sent Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III to three African countries, Kenya included.
Secretary Lloyd is scheduled to visit Kenya between September 23 to 28, 2023 in his African tour.
In a statement seen by The Kenya Times, U.S. Department of Defense said the visit is to strengthen partnerships and enhance regional security on the African continent.
Additionally, during his five days trip, Lloyd will also visit Djibouti and Angola in efforts to promote peace and stability.
“This visit underscores the U.S. Department of Defense’s commitment to strengthening partnerships and enhancing regional security on the African continent,” read part of the statement.
Lloyd Military Visit
Further, he will visit U.S. military personnel deployed to Djibouti and Kenya.
According to the Statement, Lloyd will use the chance to express President Biden’s appreciation and gratitude to the military officer’s gratitude for their service and dedication to promoting peace and security in the region.
Also Read: Biden Gives Ruto Special Mention in Global Meeting
“The Secretary will meet with senior Djiboutian officials to discuss ongoing military cooperation, regional security challenges, and opportunities for further collaboration,” said the statement.
Additionally, the visit to Luanda will focus on building stronger defense relations and exploring avenues for increased military-to-military cooperation between the U.S. and Angola.
Also, in Nairobi, Secretary Lloyd is set to engage with Kenyan defense officials on shared security interests and counter-terrorism efforts.
U.S. Department of Defense
The department of defense is an executive division of the U.S. federal government responsible for ensuring national security and supervising U.S. military forces.
Based in the Pentagon, it includes the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the departments of the U.S. Army, U.S. Navy, and U.S. Air Force, and numerous defense agencies and allied services.
It was formed in 1947 by an act of Congress (amended 1949) combining the War and Navy Departments.
Lloyd is the 28th Secretary of Defense since the creation of the division.
Further, he was sworn in as the 28th Secretary of Defense on January 22, 2021.
Secretary Lloyd is the principal assistant to the President in all matters relating to the Department of Defense.
Additionally, he serves on the National Security Council.