Navy Capabilities to be Enhanced to Improve Service Delivery, President Ruto
The government will increase support for the Kenyan Navy and improve its ability to defend the country’s maritime borders.
President William Ruto said this would include investing in advanced technology and modernizing the naval fleet.
He said the government would also enhance the skills and operational capabilities of naval personnel.
“Our sole focus will be on maintaining a high level of readiness to ensure we can respond quickly and effectively to an increasingly dynamic security environment,” he said.
Speaking at the Kenya Naval Base in Mtungwe, Mombasa County, during commemorations of the 60th anniversary of the founding of the Kenyan Navy, he praised the navy for its unwavering commitment to safeguarding national sovereignty and territorial integrity.
“The strategic importance of the Kenyan Navy cannot be overstated. It deters external aggression, safeguards our sovereignty and defends our territorial integrity,” he said.
He noted that although the Navy is the youngest branch of the Kenya Defense Forces, its performance record is something to be proud of.
“As Commander-in-Chief of the Kenya Defense Forces, I am extremely proud of the achievements of the Kenya Defense Forces as an institution and the Kenya Navy in particular,” he said.
The President said the Navy has played an important role in unlocking Kenya’s huge untapped potential in the blue economy.
“By investing in maritime infrastructure and enhancing its security, we can not only improve naval capabilities but also create wealth and jobs,” he said.
President Ruto praised the synergy between the Navy and the Kenya Coast Guard, which is a cornerstone of Kenya’s National Maritime Defense Strategy.
He said the two agencies protect the nation’s coastlines, combat illegal activities, protect marine resources and maintain maritime transportation and trade lanes.
“Their collaboration exemplifies the spirit of multi-agency collaboration and a whole-of-government approach critical to our national security,” he said.
President Ruto, who is also the Commander-in-Chief of the Kenya Defense Forces, called on members of the disciplined forces to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, integrity and excellence.
He added: “Working as a team, we will overcome any challenge, rise above all obstacles, face the uncertainties ahead and continue to make the Kenya Navy the pride of our country.”
At this colorful event, President Ruto launched a commemorative book, “Kenya Navy 60 Years”.
Chief of Defense Staff Charles Kahariri said the Kenya Navy has continued to defend Kenyan waters and maritime interests since its establishment.
“This has earned the Kenyan Navy admiration at home and abroad,” he said.
Defense Minister Tua said the Kenya Navy’s contribution to the blue economy drives the bottom-up economic transformation agenda.
“Our efforts to protect marine ecosystems and promote sustainable use of marine resources contribute to our nation’s prosperity,” he said.
Also present at the event were Senate President Amason Kingi, Prime Minister Musalia Mudavadi, Cabinet Secretaries John Mbadi (Finance), Salim Mvurya (Trade), Margaret Nyambura (ICT), Governor Abdullswamad Nassir (Mombasa), Fatuma Acani (Kwa Le) and members of Congress
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of the President of the Republic of Kenya.
