The security and stability of Kenya’s North-Eastern region remain a top national security priority, Chief of the Defence Forces (CDF) General Charles Kahariri has said during an operational tour of key Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) formations in the North-Eastern and the Coast.
General Kahariri visited the 6 Brigade Headquarters in Modika, Garissa County on Thursday. He received detailed briefings on the prevailing security situation across the wider Northeastern operational area.
The region is considered strategically critical due to its proximity to international borders and exposure to cross-border and transnational security threats.
Addressing officers and service personnel, the CDF commended the brigade for its discipline, resilience, and professionalism, urging troops to remain vigilant and sustain intelligence-driven operations.
“The security of this region remains a national priority for the Government and the KDF. You are deployed on the forward line of defence, carrying the responsibility of protecting Kenya’s sovereignty, securing our borders, and safeguarding the lives and livelihoods of our people against all threats,” General Kahariri said.
He emphasized the importance of strengthened inter-agency coordination and community cooperation as critical pillars in maintaining long-term security and operational stability in the region.
The CDF later inspected sections of the Lamu Port–South Sudan–Ethiopia Transport (LAPSSET) Corridor.
He described it as a strategic national asset central to Kenya’s economic growth, connectivity, and regional integration.
The Chief of the military received progress updates from engineers and officials of the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) and was briefed on force protection measures securing the corridor.
General Kahariri engaged troops deployed along key segments of the infrastructure project, reaffirming the KDF’s role in safeguarding critical national infrastructure.
In Lamu County, the CDF toured the Kenya Navy Base Manda, where he received briefings on joint land and maritime operations under Operation Amani Boni (OAB). The briefings highlighted ongoing efforts to deny hostile elements freedom of movement while securing the coastline and adjacent land corridors.
He inspected key facilities at the base and commended naval and army personnel for their coordination, operational readiness, and discipline in maintaining coastal and maritime security.
The visit, which was accompanied by Commander Kenya Army Lieutenant General David Ketter and 2nd Brigade Commander Brigadier General William Kamoiro, assessed troop readiness, operational effectiveness, and the overall security posture in these strategically vital regions.
The 'Kenya Defence Forces’ is committed to defending national sovereignty and protecting critical infrastructure as the country confronts evolving security challenges.