The Kenya Navy received non-lethal equipment at its headquarters in Mtongwe, Mombasa.
The EU has handed over non-lethal equipment to strengthen the Kenya Navy’s specialised maritime operations and personnel safety.
The Kenya Navy has received its first consignment of non-lethal equipment under Sh3 billion in EU defence support. The assistance targets the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), with the Navy among its main beneficiaries.
The handover took place on Wednesday at the Navy’s headquarters in Mtongwe, Mombasa. In a statement, the EU said its member states financed the package through the European Peace Facility (EPF). This marks Kenya’s first assistance under the facility.
The equipment will support the Navy’s Special Operations Squadron, particularly its Diving Unit and Kenya Navy Marines. It aims to improve personnel safety, readiness and effectiveness during specialised maritime missions.
EU defence support strengthens maritime partnership
Maciej Stadejek led the handover alongside EU Ambassador to Kenya Andreas Peschke. Stadejek serves as Deputy Managing Director for Peace, Security and Defence Policy at the European External Action Service.
The handover also coincides with 50 years of diplomatic relations between Kenya and the EU. Kenya Navy Commander Major General Paul Otieno described the assistance as an important step in that partnership. He said it reflected the EU’s confidence in Kenya as a reliable regional security partner.
Stadejek, meanwhile, reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to Kenya’s defence capabilities and regional security operations. He described the delivery as part of continuing cooperation rather than a standalone initiative.
Peschke also said the assistance would help protect international trade, maritime resources and the blue economy.
Navy pledges training integration and accountability
Otieno identified piracy, maritime terrorism, illicit trafficking and illegal fishing as threats that require sustained international cooperation. Because no country can tackle these challenges alone, he called for stronger maritime surveillance, intelligence sharing and coordinated responses.
The Navy commander also pledged to incorporate the equipment into training and operational activities. Alongside that commitment, he promised proper maintenance, accountability and responsible use of the equipment.
The European Peace Facility dates to 2021 and draws funding from contributions by EU member states. It supports international peace and security by providing partner countries with equipment, infrastructure and training.
The assistance also complements other EU security engagements in the region. These include the European Union Naval Force’s Operation Atalanta in the Western Indian Ocean. The partnership aims to strengthen Kenya’s response to maritime threats while helping protect strategic shipping routes and marine resources.
