The UK will train thousands of Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) officers every year. KDF made this confirmation during the UK-Kenya Intergovernmental Liaison Committee (ILC) convened on 26 June 2025 at Defence Headquarters in Nairobi.
The meeting brought together senior defence officials from both nations to deepen bilateral military cooperation under the existing Defence Cooperation Agreement (DCA).
Brigadier Samwel Kimani, Chief of Strategic Plans and Policy (SP&P), and UK Defence Advisor to Kenya, Brigadier Oliver Bryant are among those who were in attendance alongside other senior officers.
Brigadier Kimani highlighted the importance of the forum as a platform to reflect on shared achievements, reaffirm mutual commitments, and chart the future of defence collaboration.
The meeting reaffirmed the United Kingdom’s commitment to training over 1,100 Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) personnel annually.
Other Areas of Agreement
It also underscored continued UK support in areas including infrastructure development, peacekeeping, and counterterrorism efforts through the British Army Training Unit Kenya (BATUK) and the British Peace Support Team.
The ILC further committed to enhancing legal oversight and strengthening community engagement, reinforcing its role as a vital mechanism for managing grievances and promoting transparency within the defence partnership.
It concluded with both governments reiterating a shared vision for a modern, transparent, and cooperative defence relationship—grounded in mutual respect and focused on regional peace and stability.
KDF Soldiers Join U.S Military Academies
On May 28, KDF and the United States Africa Command (USAFRICOM), hosted a congratulatory ceremony in Nairobi to honour two Kenyan cadets selected to join prestigious United States military academies.
The ceremony celebrated Cadet Moses Kipsang, who will be joining the United States Air Force Academy, and Cadet Philemon Munjuri, who has been accepted into the United States Naval Academy.
Speaking at the event, Brigadier Peter Kimondiu, Deputy Commandant of the Kenya Military Academy, lauded the achievement and praised the two for their dedication in service delivery.
Also Read: Meet Joyce Sitienei, Kenya’s Top KDF Officer Appointed DVC National Defence University
“It is a great honour to celebrate the selection of these cadets to train at two of the most prestigious US military institutions. Your discipline and hard work have brought you this far,” Brig Kimondiu said.
Kimondiu emphasised that greater challenges lie ahead, but so do greater opportunities, and encouraged the cadets to apply themselves fully and represent Kenya with pride.
He noted that their achievement reflects both their personal accomplishments and the enduring strength of the partnership between Kenya and the United States.
Also Read: Ruto Makes Changes in KDF, Appoints New Army and Air Force Commanders
U.S General Congratulates the Soldiers
General Michael Langley, Commander USAFRICOM, expressed his pride and enthusiasm in welcoming the cadets.
He extended his best wishes for their training and stay in the United States.
KDF and the US military continue to deepen their cooperation through leadership development, joint training and cadet exchange programmes, strengthening defence ties and investing in the next generation of military leaders.
Follow our WhatsApp Channel and X Account for real-time news updates.
