Conference remarks · 28 May 2025
Charge d’Affaires, US Embassy in Kenya, Cabinet Secretary for Defence, The National Security Advisor, The USA Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defence, Our Chief of the Defence Forces and visiting Chiefs of Defence, Commander of the U.S. Africa Command, General Officers, Members of the Diplomatic Corps, Distinguished Delegates, Ladies and Gentlemen,
I welcome you all to Nairobi. Kenya is honoured to co-host this important forum in partnership with the United States of America. It is especially meaningful that this gathering is taking place on African soil, only the second time in its history, underscoring the continent’s growing leadership in defining its own security agenda.
Ladies and Gentlemen, Africa stands at a pivotal moment, poised to harness its vast potential and shape a prosperous future. With over 60% of our population under the age of 25, the continent is set to become the world’s largest workforce by 2050, offering a dynamic labour pool for global industries.
Abundant natural resources, including 65% of the world’s uncultivated arable land and significant reserves of critical minerals such as lithium and cobalt, position Africa as a key player in global food security and the green energy transition.
It is in this context that initiatives like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) have been established to unify markets, boost intra-African trade, and attract investment, fostering economic diversification and resilience. Additionally, the continent’s commitment to sustainable development is evident in projects like the Great Green Wall, which seeks to combat desertification and create millions of jobs.
Enhanced strategic investments in education, technology, and renewable energy signal a continent ready to lead and innovate on the global stage.
However, we must also confront the persistent challenges that impede our progress, including political instability, inadequate infrastructure, and widespread insecurity. Across the continent, we face increasingly asymmetrical and transnational threats, from terrorism and armed conflict to cyberattacks and environmental degradation. These challenges test the resilience of our institutions and demand that we reimagine our peace and security architecture.
This conference, therefore, is not only a forum for military cooperation but also a strategic platform for dialogue, policy coordination, and the strengthening of Africa’s collective voice in global security affairs.
The theme, “Strengthening African Security, Sustaining Unity of Effort,” underscores the reality that our safety is interconnected. When one country or region falters, the ripple effects transcend borders, impacting livelihoods, economies, and development prospects. True security in Africa must be continental in ambition and collaborative in execution.
For Africa to thrive, we must deepen our investment in unity, not just as a diplomatic ideal, but as a practical strategy for resilience. Strengthening partnerships among our defence institutions, promoting shared doctrines and strategic alignment, and championing African-led solutions must remain central to our approach. These principles should guide how we respond to crises, support peace operations, and prepare for the evolving threats of the 21st century.
Ladies and Gentlemen, Kenya remains firmly committed to the cause of regional peace and stability. We envision a future in which African states stand together in mutual defence of our sovereignty and values, where our military cooperation is not reactive, but proactive and strategic.
In this regard, we will continue working with our partners, bilaterally, regionally, and multilaterally, to build a defence architecture that is robust, credible, and enduring. By strengthening our collective security mechanisms and sustaining unity of effort, we can overcome the challenges that stand in the way of our collective progress.
Allow me, in a very special way, to appreciate the United States of America for its tremendous support of this conference and its broader contributions to regional security. I also extend my deepest appreciation to the organisers, panellists, and participants. I trust that your discussions will be candid, constructive, and insightful in shaping the future of our continent.
Finally, I warmly invite you to explore not only our vibrant capital city, Nairobi, but also the breathtaking landscapes and hidden treasures across Magical Kenya. From the snow-capped peaks of Mount Kenya to the golden beaches of the Indian Ocean coast, from the wildlife-rich savannahs of the Maasai Mara to the tranquil beauty of the Great Rift Valley, every corner of this country offers a unique and unforgettable experience. I encourage you to carve out some time from your busy schedules to enjoy this experience. I thank you.