This archive report was first published on 9 November 2021.
Kenya's Modernized Military Ready to Face External Aggressors: Kenyatta ¶
President Uhuru Kenyatta has pledged to continue protecting Kenya's territorial integrity in the wake of a ruling by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in regards to the maritime boundary dispute with Somalia. The ruling, handed down on October 12, found that there is no agreed maritime boundary between Kenya and Somalia, with Somalia being awarded most of the disputed sea zone.
Speaking during the commemoration of Kenya's 58th Mashujaa Day celebrations in Kirinyaga County, President Kenyatta reiterated Kenya's position on the boundary issue, stating that the country will not compromise on its territorial integrity. He emphasized that Kenya has experienced territorial aggression in the past, but has always maintained its sovereignty.
President Kenyatta also highlighted the transformation of the security sector in the country, including the military, as one of his administration's key agenda. He stated that the visible transformation of the security organs has been done in honor of their sacred national duty of defending the country's sovereignty, maintaining its territorial integrity, securing its borders, and preserving its cherished freedoms and way of life.
He further pointed out that his administration has rolled out a successful campaign over the years to modernize the military in a bid to guarantee the security of the country. In the last eight years, Kenya has undertaken the most consequential and expansive modernization of its military in its nation's history, with a focus on tooling and re-tooling security resources to the highest standards.
President Kenyatta also announced plans to build four additional hospitals to cater for the military and their dependents, in recognition of the heavy toll placed on them and their families.
