16 Refurbished Copters Donated To Kenya By the US for Peacekeeping Mission
The US government said on Thursday that it will give Kenya 16 reconditioned helicopters to help in its security operations.
According to a White House announcement, the 16 helicopters will include 16 Hueys and 8 MD-500s.
Despite the deal, Kenya will officially receive the US-made helicopters between late 2024 and mid-2025.
The helicopters will be utilized to strengthen Kenya’s capabilities to offer regional peace and security, as well as to assist Kenya in peacekeeping missions.
The US is also making long-term investments in Kenya’s defense capabilities, such as improving border security and raising marine security awareness.
“The US has invested heavily in Keya’s defence capabilities, providing over $230 million in civilian security and defence sector funding since 2020,” the statement read in part.
To bolster Kenya’s efforts to combat terrorism, the US government and Kenya intend to sign an agreement to extend the Manda Bay Airfield in the coastal region by erecting a 10,000-foot runway.
“The expanded facility provides Kenya with the required infrastructure to increase operations against the terrorist group al-Shabaab,” the White House revealed.
Kenya will also get a $18.7 million grant to support counterterrorism efforts and strengthen Kenya’s criminal justice system’s ability to combat terrorism threats.
The funding will also be utilized to teach, coach, and equip investigators, forensic examiners, law enforcement officers, court officials, and prosecutors.
“The programming also promotes the US strategy on women, peace, and security through specialized training and mentorship for female law enforcement officers in Kenya,” the US government announced.
The US administration also declared that Kenya was in the process of joining Operation Gallant Phoenix, a program that promotes transnational collaboration and the exchange of terrorist information.
16 Refurbished Copters Donated To Kenya By the US for Peacekeeping Mission
