ISTANBUL, Turkey — Kenya has strengthened its international defence partnerships after signing a new Defence Cooperation Agreement (DCA) with Turkey during the 5th International Defence and Aerospace Exhibition, SAHA Expo 2026.
The agreement was reached following high-level bilateral talks between Soipan Tuya and Turkey’s Defence Minister Yasar Guler in Istanbul.
Kenya said the deal marks a major step toward institutionalising defence cooperation between the two countries as Nairobi seeks to expand strategic security partnerships and modernise its defence capabilities.
According to officials, the agreement establishes a framework for collaboration in military training, defence industry cooperation, technology transfer, and modernisation programmes aimed at strengthening Kenya’s long-term operational readiness.
The Ministry of Defence said the partnership aligns with Kenya’s broader strategy of improving military preparedness through international cooperation, innovation, and capacity development.
The bilateral discussions also focused on regional security developments, particularly the evolving security situation in the Horn of Africa.
Both countries underscored the importance of coordinated international and regional efforts in promoting peace, stability, and collective security across the region.
Kenya and Turkey reaffirmed their commitment to supporting initiatives aimed at combating insecurity and strengthening regional stability amid ongoing geopolitical and security challenges affecting East Africa and the wider region.
The engagement highlighted Kenya’s growing use of defence diplomacy as a tool for advancing strategic interests and strengthening military partnerships through international forums and defence exhibitions.
Kenya has similarly been diversifying its defence partnerships beyond traditional Western allies as part of efforts to access new technologies, improve military capability, and strengthen strategic autonomy.
The talks at SAHA Expo also provided Kenya with an opportunity to explore emerging defence technologies and deepen cooperation with Turkish defence manufacturers and institutions.
The meeting was attended by Anthony Muchiri and Faustino Lobaly, alongside senior Kenyan military and government officials.
Turkey has become an increasingly influential actor in African defence and diplomacy, with growing engagement in infrastructure, trade, security cooperation, and military technology across the continent.