The Kenyan government has confirmed that its long-standing military partnership with the United Kingdom remains intact after announcing the resumption of joint training exercises at the British Army Training Unit Kenya (BATUK) in Nanyuki. The announcement comes just days after uncertainty over the future of the programme sparked widespread debate and political claims.
Highlights
- Kenya and the UK have agreed to resume joint military training at BATUK.
- Foreign Affairs CS Musalia Mudavadi says the partnership remains strong.
- Earlier concerns centred on legal and accountability issues involving British troops.
- Parliament had recommended stricter oversight of BATUK operations.
- The move follows speculation that the training had been cancelled.
Main Story
Kenya and UK Renew Defence Cooperation
The Kenyan government has announced that joint military training with the United Kingdom will continue at the British Army Training Unit Kenya (BATUK) in Nanyuki, ending days of uncertainty over the programme.
Foreign Affairs Cabinet Secretary and Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi said the decision reflects the strong relationship between Kenya and the UK, describing it as a partnership built on dialogue, mutual respect and shared interests.
According to Mudavadi, the cooperation continues to strengthen the Kenya Defence Forces, improve regional security, create employment opportunities and support businesses in communities hosting the military exercises.
Earlier Concerns Triggered Speculation
The announcement follows reports that the 2026 edition of Exercise Haraka Storm, a six-week military training programme involving British and Kenyan soldiers, would be moved outside Kenya after licensing approvals failed to go through.
The development fuelled speculation that political interference and alleged bribery demands had contributed to the delay.
Parliament Explains Licensing Delay
National Assembly Defence, Foreign Affairs and Intelligence Committee Chairperson Nelson Koech dismissed those claims, saying the delay was linked to unresolved legal concerns surrounding the presence of British troops in Kenya.
He explained that Parliament’s committee had spent two years reviewing BATUK operations before presenting its report in November 2025.
Among its recommendations were giving Kenyan courts jurisdiction over serious offences involving visiting soldiers, mandatory cooperation with local investigations, stronger environmental protections, child-support obligations and improved safeguards for communities hosting the military exercises.
Agnes Wanjiru Case Remains Key Concern
The committee also highlighted unresolved issues surrounding the 2012 murder of Agnes Wanjiru, whose death has been linked to British soldiers stationed at BATUK, as well as longstanding complaints from residents of Nanyuki and Laikipia.
As Kenya and the UK move forward with renewed military cooperation, both nations face growing expectations to balance security interests with accountability, justice and respect for local communities.
