Kenya and Germany have reinforced their long-standing diplomatic and defense cooperation, focusing on strengthening the country’s ability to handle emerging security threats in peace support missions. During a high-level visit on January 22, 2026, the German delegation was briefed on Kenya’s ongoing security training initiatives at the Humanitarian Peace Support School (HPSS) in Nairobi, with special emphasis on Counter–Improvised Explosive Device (C-IED) training. The two countries’ partnership has been instrumental in enhancing Kenya’s peacekeeping and operational capabilities, and the visit highlighted the critical role Germany has played in supporting the country’s peace and security agenda.
One of the key outcomes of the visit was a detailed briefing on the Humanitarian Peace Support School’s (HPSS) vital role within the African Peace and Security Architecture (APSA). The delegation received insight into HPSS’s contributions to regional security, particularly in the realm of Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD). Germany’s support has been pivotal in the development of the C-IED Training Complex, a state-of-the-art facility commissioned in April 2025. The complex is designed to enhance Kenya’s ability to manage IED-related threats in peace support missions, an increasingly critical capability for both Kenya and the wider East African region.
The training complex has already provided advanced skills to a significant number of personnel, significantly strengthening Kenya’s capacity to tackle the challenges posed by improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in conflict zones. The engagement reflects the depth of Kenya–Germany relations, which are built on shared values of peace, security, and regional stability. The two countries have worked closely to advance their mutual interests in international peace support operations, with the C-IED facility being a milestone achievement in their defense cooperation.
The visit also provided an opportunity for both sides to explore further areas of collaboration in peace and security training. Kenya’s Defence Cabinet Secretary, Soipan Tuya, who hosted the German delegation at the Embakasi Garrison, reiterated the importance of continued support from Germany in strengthening Kenya’s peacekeeping capabilities. The delegation’s visit underscored both countries’ commitment to enhancing regional peace and security and reinforcing their diplomatic and defense ties.
In conclusion, the continued partnership between Kenya and Germany promises to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of peace support operations across the African continent. By deepening their collaboration in Counter-IED training, the two nations are helping to equip Kenya and its neighbors with the skills necessary to address the evolving security challenges in the region.
