The new Commander of the United States Africa Command (USAFRICOM), General Dagvin Anderson, on Wednesday, September 3, visited the Defence Headquarters in Nairobi.
Upon his arrival, he was accorded military honours, including a guard mounted by the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), as he was received by the Chief of the Defence Forces (CDF), General Charles Kahariri.
The two military chiefs went ahead to hold extensive discussions centred on enhancing military partnerships in the areas of regional security, counterterrorism, capacity building, professional military education and joint operations.
General Anderson commended Kenya for its steadfast role in promoting peace and stability across the Horn of Africa, particularly in countering violent extremism and supporting peacekeeping missions in the region.
While delivering his speech, Anderson noted that Kenya remains a critical partner for the United States in advancing shared security interests.
General Kahariri reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to working closely with the US and other partners to strengthen peace and security across the continent.
He highlighted Kenya’s ongoing defence modernisation programmes and the importance of sustained international partnerships in addressing evolving security threats.
According to the KDF boss, General Anderson's visit not only reaffirmed the historic ties between the two militaries but also signalled a renewed push for deeper strategic engagement in addressing emerging security challenges in Africa.
General Dagvin Anderson replaced General Michael Langley, who retired. Langley handed over the role to Anderson on August 15 at the headquarters of USAFRICOM in Stuttgart, Germany.
The handover was also attended by CDF Kahariri and underscored the enduring strategic partnership between Kenya and the US in advancing peace and stability in Africa.
During the meeting, Kahariri expressed concerns over the recent drawdown of troops under the African Union Support Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), warning that it could undermine years of progress.
Kahariri urged the global community to renew and strengthen its commitment to the Somali peace process and broader Horn of Africa stability efforts.
