Today saw the signature of a new Defence Co-operation Agreement (DCA) between the UK and Kenya. The document, signed on behalf of their respective Governments by British High Commissioner Nic Hailey and CS Defence Raychelle Omamo, will now go forward for ratification in the UK and Kenyan Parliaments.

The new DCA will significantly enhance defence co-operation between the two countries, with increased interaction between the three Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) services and UK Armed Forces. This will increase the operational effectiveness of both nations, and further contribute to Kenyan and wider regional security.  It will also enable the continuation of British military training in Kenya, worth approximately Ksh 9 billion per annum to the Kenyan economy.

Speaking following the signature at KDF Headquarters, new British High Commissioner to Kenya Nic Hailey said:

“The UK is Kenya’s longest-standing defence and security partner, and both our countries want to see the relationship continue and grow. This new agreement is based on mutual respect for each other’s sovereignty, the Kenyan Constitution and the shared interest of our military relationship.”

Notes to Editors

The military relationship between the UK and Kenya is a genuine partnership, based on mutual respect for each other’s sovereignty, in which both countries benefit.

UK defence spend in Kenya last year was around Ksh 8.7 billion, with the majority (Ksh 7 billion) going directly into the Kenyan economy. The remainder went towards institutional development, collective and individual training, capacity building, gifting of equipment, operational assistance and community projects.

Finalizing the new Defence Co-operation Agreement (DCA) will allow for strengthened defence engagement in areas such as border security and Counter Improvised Explosive Device (C-IED) capability, and continue training and capacity building to Kenya and other AMISOM troop-contributing countries.

Contrary to some media reporting, the UK has never sought immunity from prosecution for soldiers who commit crimes in Kenya. The UK Government insists on legal accountability for all its personnel in line with either British or Kenyan law, depending on which is most appropriate in the circumstances