Kenya Defence Forces and the Massachusetts National Guard have renewed the State Partnership Agreement.
The signing on Tuesday was done by Chief of the Defence Forces Gen Charles Kahariri and Maj Gen Gary Keefe, Adjutant General of the Massachusetts National Guard, at Defence Headquarters in Nairobi.
The State Partnership Program is administered by the National Guard Bureau, guided by U.S. Department of State foreign policy goals, and supports theater commanders’ security cooperation objectives.
“The visit aimed to strengthen ongoing and future collaboration between KDF and the Massachusetts National Guard. Key focus areas included leadership development, medical exercises, and joint initiatives to enhance operational capabilities. Discussions also addressed cybersecurity, counterterrorism, and other security challenges, reinforcing strategic cooperation,” KDF said in a statement.
It added that the renewed agreement highlights both parties’ commitment to institutional capacity-building and cultural exchange while supporting the citizens of both nations.
“Since its inception in 2015, the State Partnership Program (SSP) has played a crucial role in fostering joint training exercises, disaster response operations, counterterrorism efforts, and military professionalism,” it said.
The programmed was first signed in October 1, 2015 by Maj Gen L. Scott Rice, then adjutant general, Massachusetts National Guard, and Kiritu Miano Wamae, then acting Defence PS.
Then Cabinet Secretary of Defence Raychelle Omamo, former US Ambassador Robert F. Godec and Gen. David M. Rodriguez, commander of the U.S. Africa Command at the time were present.
Omamo said the signing underscored the strong ties of friendship and mutual interests between Kenya and the US.
“It is my sincere hope that this agreement will solidify our partnership and serve our collective vision of peace and security in Kenya and our region,” Omamo said.
On Tuesday, Maj Gen Keefe awarded Massachusetts Achievement Medals to Colonel Samuel Olando and Major Naema Fernandes for their outstanding service as KDF Liaison Officers.
General and Senior officers in attendance included Major General David Keter (Assistant Chief of the Defence Forces, Personnel & Logistics), Major General Frederick Leuria (Assistant Chief of the Defence Forces, Operations, Planning, Doctrine & Training), Major General Mohammed Burje (Director of Military Intelligence), and other officers from both the KDF and the Massachusetts National Guard.
