Kenya has signed a new defence cooperation agreement with France that sets out a structured framework for joint military work, including training, intelligence sharing and the possibility of deploying troops in each other’s territory under agreed conditions.
The agreement, already approved by the National Assembly, will run for five years starting November 2025 and will renew automatically unless either side decides to withdraw. It also provides for a review after ten years and allows termination with three months’ notice by either government.
The pact lays out expanded cooperation between the two militaries through joint exercises, intelligence exchange and regular strategic consultations. It also provides for officer exchanges, training programmes, seminars, conferences and official visits aimed at strengthening defence relations.
Under the deal, personnel deployed in either country will be allowed to wear uniforms, carry service weapons and use communication equipment, but only with approval from the host state. Host nations will also support visiting forces through eased entry procedures, movement assistance, visa facilitation and access to necessary operational infrastructure.
On legal arrangements, visiting troops will remain subject to host country laws, but their home country will handle offences linked to official duties. Internal disciplinary matters will remain fully under the control of the sending nation.
Both countries have agreed to waive claims against each other for damage caused during official operations, except in cases of serious or intentional wrongdoing. Where third parties are affected, liability will be assigned to the responsible side or shared where fault is unclear.
The agreement also introduces tax and customs exemptions, covering military equipment, personal belongings and official supplies brought into the host country. Salaries earned by deployed personnel will be taxed only in their country of origin.
Each side will generally cover its own costs for joint activities unless there is a separate agreement to share expenses. Emergency medical care provided by host military services will be free, while other treatment may attract charges.
To oversee implementation, a Joint Working Group made up of officials from both defence ministries will meet at least once a year to coordinate activities and resolve issues. Any disputes will be handled through diplomatic channels rather than courts.
The cooperation framework is intended to strengthen ties between the Kenya Defence Forces and the French military, focusing on maritime security, counterterrorism and regional stability in the Horn of Africa and the Western Indian Ocean.
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