Kenya, UK Sign Strike Revitalized Security Deal

By Samuel Ouma

Kenya and the UK have inked an agreement that strengthens their strategic alliance and addresses new challenges to national, regional, and international security.

The deal was sealed on Wednesday in Nairobi at a meeting between UK Security Minister Tom Tugendhat and Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki.

The Compact's scope will include the fight against terrorism and mutual assistance in the investigation and prosecution of terror-related crimes.

"I am pleased to confirm that the UK and Kenya have renewed their joint security compact,” said Kindiki.

In addition, the two nations signed a statement of intent to collaborate on information sharing in order to improve maritime security.

Soon, teams from both countries will be drafting an action plan for the execution of intelligence sharing on maritime security issues and learning from each other.

Furthermore, the two countries have reached a framework agreement for cooperation in the training of the police officers.

"We have also signed an agreement for cooperation in the area of training of our National Police Service. We want to continually develop the capacity of our tactical specialized units to combat sophisticated criminal activities, including banditry and money laundering,” said Kindiki.

Tugendhat, on his part, stated that the agreement is about looking at the difficulties that both Kenya and the United Kingdom are facing and coming up with greater remedies that will assist the citizens.

He stated that the deal will protect both the British and Kenyan peoples while also strengthening Kenya's position as a regional power.

“The reality is that the isolation of the old days doesn't exist anymore. The challenges that face the region at sea, on land, and in cyberspace — challenges us both. So, working together is the only way to secure the British people, just as it is the only way to secure the Kenyan people,” said Tugendhat.