MOMBASA, Kenya — France has deployed at least 800 military personnel to Kenya in a move aimed at strengthening defence cooperation and maritime security between the two countries.
The troops from the French Army arrived aboard three warships that docked at the Port of Mombasa, according to officials from the French Embassy.
Arnaud Suquet said the deployment forms part of broader international cooperation efforts between Paris and Nairobi.
The troops are expected to provide specialised training to personnel from the Kenya Defence Forces, particularly members of the Kenya Navy.
Maritime security training
The training mission will focus on strengthening maritime security capabilities and preparing naval cadets through joint exercises and operational learning at sea.
Romain Boyer confirmed that the French forces will work closely with Kenyan naval trainees as part of the programme.
“The mission of the French troops deployed here is to train cadets. We have some young officers who will finish their training at sea and then join the first unit,” Boyer said.
“But it is an operational mission. We are training and delivering security at sea, and it is all about partnership, especially with the rise in war in the Indian Ocean,” he added.
