US Defense Secretary Visits Kenya Amid Regional Turmoil
United States Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin III is scheduled to travel to Kenya and two other African nations as the North American nation seeks to strengthen its ties with its allies on the continent.
The Department of Defense announced on Saturday that Austin will be in Nairobi to discuss “shared security interests and counter-terrorism efforts” with senior defense officials.
According to the United States, the visit demonstrates America’s determination to strengthen its ties with Kenya and other African nations.
“In Nairobi, Secretary Austin is set to engage with Kenyan defense officials on shared security interests and counter-terrorism efforts,” the US Department noted.
“This visit underscores the US Department of Defense’s commitment to strengthening partnerships and enhancing regional security on the African continent.”
The United States increasingly views Kenya as a reliable regional ally as the country transitions from pro-Eastern to pro-Western policies.
Since assuming office, President William Ruto has traveled extensively throughout Europe, North America, and US ally South Korea. Ruto has not traveled to China and skipped a crucial Russia-Africa summit in Moscow.
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In a video, the Department of Defense explained that the visit is part of a larger initiative to strengthen regional security in Africa.
Secretary Austin is anticipated to visit US soldiers stationed in Kenya who contribute to US and African efforts to combat terrorism.
“The Secretary will go and make of follow up on previous commitments which had been agreed upon during the US-African Summit which was attended by 45 African nations,” the US Department of Defence stated.
Secretary Austin is also anticipated to travel to other African nations, including Djibouti and Angola, to discuss American interests.
“The Secretary will meet with senior Djiboutian officials to discuss ongoing military cooperation, regional security challenges, and opportunities for further collaboration,” the Department noted.
“The visit to Luanda will focus on building stronger defense relations and exploring avenues for increased military-to-military cooperation between the U.S. and Angola.”
US Defense Secretary Visits Kenya Amid Regional Turmoil
