On the occasion of William Ruto’s state visit to the United States, Joe Biden on Thursday designated Kenya as ” major non-NATO ally “. Eighteen other countries already benefit from this special status which gives the countries that benefit from it privileged military and diplomatic ties with the United States. In Africa, after Egypt, Morocco and Tunisia, Kenya would become the first country in sub-Saharan Africa to obtain it.
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With our correspondent in Nairobi, Albane Thirouard
“ A historic decision “, “ an important turning point »… The Kenyan press was delighted on Friday May 24 with this announcement. It illustrates, according to the main dailies, Kenya’s growing place on the international scene and underlines the role that the country has played for peace and stability in the region. Nairobi has particularly invested in the peace process for the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo. It is also a partner of Washington in the fight against the Shebab Islamists.
Joe Biden also underlined it: this status is “ the culmination of years of collaboration » between Nairobi and Washington. Kenyan political analyst Dismas Mokua also sees it as a sign that President William Ruto’s active diplomacy is bearing fruit. This status represents, according to the specialist, a mark of confidence from the United States which puts Kenya at the forefront. And could thus attract new investors.
Washington has already announced this week funding for Kenya in the transport sector, the fight against corruption and even the police. This new diplomatic rank will allow Nairobi to have privileged military relations with the United States, in particular for access to sophisticated weapons and for the training of the armed forces.
The two leaders were asked about sending a Kenyan force to Haiti, but did not make concrete announcements on the start of the international mission supposed to bring some stability and security to the country.