Air forces will combine planning simulations and live flying in Nairobi, Kisumu and Busia to test joint responses to floods and other humanitarian emergencies.
Kenya will host an African air forces exercise in 2027 to test coordination during floods and other humanitarian disasters. The training will take place in Nairobi, Kisumu and Busia, combining planning simulations with live-flying operations.
The inaugural Association of African Air Forces Command Post and Field Training Exercise carries the name AAAFEX 2027. The Kenya Air Force is coordinating preparations with the US Air Forces in Europe and Air Forces Africa and the association’s secretariat.
African air forces exercise to test joint operations
For the first time, the association will combine a command post exercise with live-fly field training. This format will allow participating forces to test how operational plans translate into coordinated action.
Simulated flood emergencies will form a central part of the training. In these scenarios, participating forces will practise coordinating responses across national borders and deploying aircraft for humanitarian assistance.
The Kenya Defence Forces said the initiative would improve the ability of different air forces to work together. It also aims to strengthen Africa’s capacity to respond quickly to humanitarian emergencies and emerging security challenges.
Partners review preparations at air force headquarters
Representatives of the three partners met at Kenya Air Force Headquarters on October 15 to advance preparations. Their discussions covered planning milestones, participating countries’ resource commitments and arrangements for operational coordination.
Major General Melissa Coburn led the visiting delegation, representing the association’s co-chair. The delegation also included Secretary General Colonel Kristin Cullinan and Co-Secretary General Group Captain Olakule Bankole.
Kenya Air Force Commander Major General Bernard Waliaula received the visitors alongside the exercise planning team. Brigadier Hillary Kipkurui, the exercise director and Laikipia Air Base commander, leads that team.
During the meeting, planners examined realistic training scenarios and ways to integrate command-and-control systems. They also discussed how to deploy air assets effectively during humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations.
Commanders call for faster planning
Waliaula and Coburn welcomed the planning teams’ progress but called for faster preparations. They emphasised realistic scenarios, effective use of resources and lessons that could improve future multinational operations.
The KDF said the engagement reinforced Kenya’s role in regional air cooperation and collective humanitarian response. Meanwhile, preparations continue under the association’s motto, Nguvu Pamoja, which means Collective Strength.
Through AAAFEX 2027, the partners aim to turn cooperation into practical disaster-response capabilities. The combined planning and flying components will test both decision-making and the execution of joint operations.
