Kenya and the United Kingdom have formalized a new agreement enabling the continuation of British Army training exercises under the British Army Training Unit Kenya (BATUK) programme. This development follows a temporary pause in military activities amid negotiations.
The Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi’s office welcomed the renewed cooperation, highlighting its benefits for national security, strengthening the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), enhancing regional stability, and boosting economic growth through trade and employment opportunities.
The UK Embassy in Kenya confirmed that the government had issued the necessary licenses and approvals to facilitate the return of British troops. The first group of soldiers under Operation Haraka Storm is anticipated to arrive later this year.
Parliamentary Oversight and Accountability
The Defence, Intelligence and Foreign Relations Committee of Parliament has emphasized that the Defence Cooperation Agreement must be signed before British forces can operate in Kenya. Committee Chairperson Nelson Koech stressed the importance of holding foreign military personnel accountable for any violations of Kenyan law.
Koech also refuted allegations made by Democracy for the Citizens Party leader Rigathi Gachagua, who claimed the committee solicited bribes to approve the BATUK renewal. Koech suggested such accusations may be attempts to exploit the situation for personal gain.
BATUK has long facilitated joint military training between the Kenya Defence Forces and the British Army, primarily in Laikipia County. The updated agreement aims to reinforce defence collaboration while ensuring legal accountability during joint exercises.
