AFRICA ( Commonwealth Union) _ A major turning point in the UK-Kenya relationship to combat threats and fight terrorism has been reached with the completion of the basic training for the first-ever Kenyan Marine Commando Unit (KMCU).
For the ten British Marines from the 40 Commando Royal Marines who trained the KMCU for twelve weeks, the passing-out parade at Mtongwe Naval Base in Mombasa was a moment to be proud of. In order to continue working together in the fight against terrorism, cybercrime, and organized transnational crime, Kenya and the UK have struck a cooperation agreement.
Interior CS Kithure Kindiki stated that during a joint briefing with UK security minister Tom Tugendhat on Wednesday, the two nations will gain from sharing information and knowledge. The official stated that they have signed a letter of intent for cooperation between Kenya and the UK in information sharing regarding maritime security.
According to the CS, the two nations have approved a framework and agreement for cooperation in the National Police Service’s training. Over Sh1.7 billion in security agreements were inked between Kenya and the UK.
The Sh1.7 billion agreement covers crisis response for protective security, criminal justice to combat violent extremism, aviation, and marine security. He declared that Kenya would take advantage of the UK’s extensive knowledge to improve Kenyans’ capacities.
The CS stated that the agreement was established in 2015 and later updated in 2018. According to Kindiki, the updated agreement will maintain cooperation in the war on terrorism, cybercrime, and organized transnational crimes. According to Tugendhat, the collaboration will support the two nations’ growth and unification.
Fighting organized transnational crimes, such as but not limited to human trafficking and money transfers, is necessary to enable our criminal justice system to stabilize the nation, the official said. He claimed that the plan is ambitious and will aid both nations in securing and strengthening the structure that connects us to one another’s communities.
It involves examining the problems the area is facing. The best way to support our people, he added, is by working together.
