New Delhi (Agency): In a significant development for Indo-African relations, Indian Defence Minister Shri Rajnath Singh met with Kenyan Cabinet Secretary for Defence, Mr. Aden Bare Duale, in New Delhi on August 29, 2023. The meeting underscored the evolving nature of the defence partnership between India and Kenya, shifting from a training-focused relationship to a more strategic collaboration.
During the talks, both ministers agreed on the necessity for deeper cooperation in maritime security, especially in the Indian Ocean region. They also discussed at length the areas of capacity building and collaboration in the defence industry. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between Goa Shipyard Ltd in India and Kenya Shipyard Limited, aimed at capacity building and collaboration in ship design and construction.
As a “token of friendship,” Minister Singh presented 15 pairs of parachutes, made by Gliders India Limited, to the Kenyan defence forces. India also committed to helping Kenya establish an advanced CT scan facility.
Mr. Duale praised the progress of India’s defence sector, including the role of private companies. He highlighted the areas where Indian expertise could benefit the Kenyan Armed Forces. One significant suggestion was the ‘training of trainers’ for the Kenyan Forces by Indian instructors to ensure program continuity and maximize benefits.
The two countries also agreed on joint training initiatives, focusing on counter-insurgency and UN peacekeeping efforts. Other security matters of mutual interest were discussed during the meeting, which was also attended by India’s Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan and Defence Secretary Shri Giridhar Aramane.
This gathering was not just a stand-alone event but part of a broader 3-day visit by the Kenyan Defence Secretary. Mr. Duale will also be touring Indian shipyards and defence industries in Goa and Bengaluru during his stay.
The recent meeting is a testament to the growing defence ties between India and Kenya, indicating a shared commitment to tackling various security challenges. It expands the potential for future collaborations in different domains of defence and security, while also strengthening India’s relationships with African nations more broadly.
With the signing of the new MoUs and a clear agenda for future cooperation, both nations have laid the foundation for a robust and mutually beneficial defence partnership. These collaborations promise not only to enhance the defence capabilities of each country but also contribute to stability and security in the Indian Ocean region.