Kenya has granted the necessary approvals for the British Army Training Unit Kenya (BATUK) to restart military training exercises on Kenyan soil, even as negotiations over the Defence Cooperation Agreement (DCA) with the United Kingdom continue.
The decision follows a diplomatic impasse that led to the temporary suspension of BATUK activities after the Kenyan government initially withheld licence renewal. The UK welcomed the move, confirming plans to proceed with scheduled training later this year.
Clarification from Defence Committee
Nelson Koech, Chairperson of the National Assembly's Defence, Intelligence and Foreign Relations Committee, emphasized that the DCA has not yet been signed. He explained that the suspension of BATUK exercises was due to ongoing administrative and legal processes under Kenyan law, which have since been resolved.
"Any signing of the DCA will be made public. The agreement remains a key framework for Kenya-UK military cooperation," Koech stated, underscoring the committee’s commitment to safeguarding Kenya’s sovereignty and legal standards.
Addressing Stakeholder Concerns
Koech acknowledged concerns raised by human rights groups, affected communities, and civil society, including issues around criminal jurisdiction, environmental protection, compensation, transparency, and local involvement.
He noted these concerns have informed the ongoing DCA negotiations, with the committee advocating for a defence partnership that is equitable, transparent, and aligned with Kenya’s Constitution.
"Parliament will continue to oversee the agreement’s implementation to ensure Kenyan interests are prioritized," Koech affirmed, stressing the importance of public awareness on matters affecting national security and international commitments.
