Collaborative efforts needed to address maritime security

Kenyan Navy leadership engages to strengthen response

KENYA: “No single nation can address the maritime threat matrix in isolation,” the Commander of the Kenya Navy, Major General Paul Otieno, told an audience last week.

Major General Otieno was delivering the Lecture of Opportunity to participants of the Senior Joint Command and Staff Course at the Joint Command and Staff College (JCSC), where he provided a detailed analysis of the evolving landscape of Kenya’s defence diplomacy within the context of the new global security logic.

Major General Otieno also addressed contemporary maritime threats as he stressed the importance of defence diplomacy through robust maritime partnerships as the most effective way to promote stability, deter threats and protect economic interests.

The message was reinforced by Vice Chief of the Defence Forces (VCDF), Lieutenant General John Omenda during the opening ceremony of the 14th East African Community (EAC) Armed Forces Command Post Exercise Ushirikiano Imara 2026.

The multinational exercise, which included participation from military, police and civilian sectors from across EAC partner states is designed to enhance joint operational capability in key areas. Through command post drills, coordinated training and scenario-based simulations, the exercise sought to sharpen regional response mechanisms while fostering seamless collaboration among participating institutions.

Addressing participants during the opening ceremony, Lieutenant General Omenda underscored the strategic significance of regional unity in confronting emerging and persistent threats.

“Ushirikiano Imara is not only a milestone in training but also a product of collective vision and shared purpose. To overcome the challenges we face, we must stand together. Through EAC collaboration and shared commitment, we can build resilience against threats posed by criminal and terrorist groups such as Al-Shabaab and Boko Haram. No nation stands alone,” he said.

His remarks reinforced the principle that modern security challenges transcend borders and require harmonised strategies, integrated planning and sustained multinational cooperation.

Securing the blue economy for growth

With the Blue Economy increasingly positioned as a driver of national growth, the Kenya Navy is also focused on the continued investment in professional training, demonstrating that maritime security begins with people.

Officiating a graduation ceremony for Junior Officers over the weekend, Major General Otieno, underscored the strategic importance of professional maritime training in sustaining operational readiness and securing Kenya’s maritime domain.

Major General Otieno emphasised that while modern ships, advanced weapons systems and emerging technologies remain essential force multipliers, their effectiveness ultimately depends on the professionalism, competence and discipline of the officers entrusted to operate them.

The graduation reflects more than individual achievement; it represents an investment in Kenya’s broader maritime security architecture. As the newly qualified officers join the fleet and other naval establishments, they will be expected to strengthen Kenya’s ability to secure its maritime borders, protect strategic economic interests and respond effectively to emerging challenges in the maritime domain.

PHOTO: The 14th East African Community (EAC) Armed Forces Command Post Exercise Ushirikiano Imara 2026 included military, navy, police and civilian participants from across EAC partner states in a unified effort to strengthen collective security and regional resilience. (Source: Kenya Navy)

Enhancing emergency response to hazardous threats