The United States government announced its plan to donate 16 helicopters to Kenya to enhance the country’s security operations.
According to a statement from the White House, the donation includes 16 Huey helicpters and 8 MD-500s.
Despite the agreement, Kenya is expected to formally receive the US-manufactured helicopters between late 2024 and mid-2025.
The helicopters are intended to enhance Kenya’s capacity to provide regional peace and security, supporting the country in peacekeeping missions.
The United States is also making long-term investments in Kenya’s defense capabilities, which include enhancing border security capabilities and increasing awareness of maritime security.
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“The US has invested heavily in Kenya’s defence capabilities, providing over Ksh30 billion ($230 million) in civilian security and defence sector funding since 2020,” a statement from the White House read in part.
To bolster Kenya’s efforts in combating terrorism, the US government and Kenya plan to sign an agreement to expand the Manda Bay Airfield in the Coastal region by constructing a 10,000-foot runway.
“The expanded facility provides Kenya with the required infrastructure to increase operations against the terrorist group Al-Shabaab,” the White House revealed.
Kenya will also receive a Ksh2.4 billion ($18.7 million) fund to enhance counterterrorism efforts and strengthen the country’s criminal justice system’s capacity to address terrorism threats.
The funds will support training, mentorship, and provision of equipment to investigators, forensic examiners, law enforcement personnel, court officials, and prosecutors.
“The programming also promotes the US strategy on women, peace, and security through specialized training and mentorship for female law enforcement officers in Kenya,” the US government announced.
Additionally, the US government announced that Kenya is in the process of joining Operation Gallant Phoenix, a program that promotes multinational collaboration and intelligence sharing on terrorism.
