EU backs Kenya's growing role in regional maritime security
From right (in blue cap): The European Union (EU) Ambassador to Kenya Andreas Peschke, Kenya Navy Commander Major General Paul Otieno and Director for Security and Defense Policy (European External Action Service – EEAS) Maciej Stadejek at the handing over of non-lethal equipment to the Kenya Navy, Mtongwe base by EU on Wednesday, November 4, 2026.
The European Union is strengthening its defence partnership with Kenya, backing the country's role as a key regional maritime security partner through the donation of non-lethal military equipment to the Kenya Navy.
The donation was officially handed over on Tuesday at the Kenya Navy Headquarters in Mombasa under the European Peace Facility (EPF).
13: The delegation at the handing over of non-lethal equipment to the Kenya Navy, Mtongwe base by the European Union on Wednesday, November 4, 2026.
Kenya Navy Commander Major General Paul Otieno received the equipment from Director for Peace, Security and Defence Policy at the European External Action Service, Mr Maciej Stadejek. Mr Stadejek was accompanied by European Union Ambassador to Kenya, Mr Andreas Peschke.
Major General Otieno noted that the handover marks an important milestone in Kenya-EU defence cooperation, terming it more than just a transfer of equipment.
"It is a tangible expression of confidence in Kenya as a reliable security partner and of a conviction we share: that capable, professional and accountable national defence forces are a cornerstone of regional and international peace and security," he said.
The Navy Commander said the relationship between Kenya and the EU is anchored on shared values, including respect for international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), and commitment to a rules-based international order.
He added that Kenya brings to the partnership its strategic location, operational experience and long-standing contribution to regional stability, while the EU brings its global reach, expertise and commitment to African-led solutions to African security challenges.
"Together these strengths make our cooperation both complementary and mutually reinforcing," he said.
The MV Al Noor explodes after it was blown up by Kenya Navy on the President’s orders on August 29, 2014.
Major General Otieno emphasised that Kenya's position on the Western Indian Ocean places it at the heart of one of the world's most critical maritime corridors for trade, connectivity and the growth of the Blue Economy.
However, he warned that the same maritime space faces persistent and evolving threats, including maritime terrorism, piracy and armed robbery at sea, trafficking of narcotics, arms and persons, illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing, and risks to critical maritime infrastructure.
"Maritime security is a shared responsibility, demanding capable naval forces, comprehensive maritime domain awareness, timely information sharing and close coordination between national agencies and international partners," he stated.
He said the equipment will be deployed to the Kenya Navy Special Operations Squadron, a specialised unit that plays a vital role in responding to complex maritime security challenges, and will enhance the safety, readiness and effectiveness of its personnel.
On his part, Mr Stadejek said the consignment, financed by the 27 EU member states, is the first package and will not be the last.
"We are committed to strengthening continued support in defence and to Kenya stabilising itself and the region at large," he said.
Ambassador Peschke lauded the support, saying it will boost the operational capacity of the KDF.
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