During Kenyan President William Ruto’s visit to the United States, he met with Department of Defense Leader Lloyd Austin. The two discussed plans to merge against forces like the terrorist group al-Shabab and Manda Bay airfield based in Kenya but used by U.S. armed forces.
“We both believe in freedom. We believe in democracy. We believe in the rule of law. We believe in inclusivity, equality and, of course, in shared prosperity that is guaranteed by peace and security,” Ruto said publicly.
The May 24 announcement came days after President Joe Biden sent a letter to Congress initiating his intent to make Kenya a major non-NATO ally. A decision that comes with no exchange of weapons or foreign trade agreements.
“We … appreciate Kenya’s contributions to U.N. international peace and stability operations,” said Austin who visited Kenya to meet with Kenyan Defense Minister Aden Bare Duale.
There they composed a five-year framework to enhance the two country’s relations. Austin shared that three Kenyan cadets were selected to attend U.S. military service academies which remain unnamed.
“They will be the first Kenyan cadets to attend these outstanding schools — and I’m confident that they won’t be the last,” Austin pledged positively.
This announcement comes in addition to the EDTECH agreement between Ruto, Howard, and three HBCUs in the Atlanta University Center (Spelman College, Clark Atlanta University and Morehouse). Kenyan scholars will be hosted at the respective institution through funds from Microsoft and Mastercard. Their goal is to help students innovate futuristic models on the digital landscape.
“This collaboration aims to strengthen Kenya’s higher education system and prepare a new generation of Kenyan leaders to drive the development of a resilient and prosperous nation,” Ben Vinson III, Howard University president shared in a public statement.
He later added, “This is truly how we propel the diaspora forward with maximum strength.”