Kenya and France are preparing to upgrade their relationship with a full defence treaty that deepens military cooperation beyond the 2025 defence cooperation agreement the two countries signed last year. The original pact created a structured framework for collaboration on intelligence sharing, maritime security, peacekeeping, training, and humanitarian assistance; the new treaty will formalize and broaden that tie, pointing to longer-term strategic alignment.
Early indications are that the agreement will include French training programmes for Kenya’s military, expanded joint exercises, and strengthened maritime cooperation, a timely development given Kenya’s interest in diversifying defence partnerships beyond traditional allies.
The retreat of French influence from the Sahel states has led Paris to increase its diplomatic efforts with English-speaking countries in Africa. France considers Nairobi to be a suitable partnership because it lacks any ties to their colonial past and the treaty will enable Paris to regain security operations in areas where their control has decreased.
The agreement provides Kenya with counter-terrorism benefits because it enables them to increase their military assistance against Al-Shabaab forces operating in Somalia through improved trade and diplomatic relations with European countries. The treaty has created arguments within the country. Critics believe that French diplomatic rights will protect their servicemen from legal actions while supporters of the treaty defend its advantages which include enhanced military capability together with advanced training and improved maritime security.
The two parties need to establish three different security systems because Kenya requires them while France needs to establish more control over English-speaking African countries. The treaty text will provide information about the details which include basing arrangements, legal immunities, and cost-sharing agreements.
