Kenya, UK Resume Joint Military Training at BATUK

Kenya and the United Kingdom have resumed joint military training exercises at the British Army Training Unit Kenya (BATUK), ending a period of uncertainty over the programme.

Welcoming the resumption on Tuesday, Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs Musalia Mudavadi said the decision marked a significant step in reinforcing the long-standing defence partnership between the two countries

“The Government of Kenya welcomes the decision to proceed with the planned military training exercise at the British Army Training Unit Kenya,” Mudavadi said in a statement.

He said the resumption reflects the strength of the Kenya-UK relationship, which has been built over decades through cooperation in defence, peace and security

“This outcome reflects the strength of the longstanding partnership between Kenya and the United Kingdom, built over decades on mutual respect, constructive engagement and a shared commitment to peace and security,” he said.

Mudavadi noted that the renewed military exercises will enhance the operational capabilities of the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), contribute to regional peace and security, and provide economic benefits to communities that host the training activities.

He said the defence partnership also supports local businesses and jobs while advancing Kenya’s national interests.

The Prime Cabinet Secretary added that Kenya remains committed to strengthening defence cooperation with the UK despite past challenges.

“We value the close cooperation and shared commitment between Kenya and the United Kingdom that have enabled this positive outcome. Our focus remains on strengthening a partnership that delivers lasting benefits for both nations and their people,” he said.

Mudavadi said Kenya will continue working closely with the United Kingdom to deepen defence ties and advance the two countries’ shared commitment to regional stability.

The resumption of the BATUK training programme restores one of Kenya’s longest-running military partnerships with the UK, with the exercises playing a key role in joint training, capacity building and defence cooperation between the two countries.