CMF talks maritime security with Kenya

“The Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) and Kenya have enjoyed a productive relationship for many years, and this visit has given us both the opportunity to identify how we may continue our cooperation into the future.

CMF talks maritime security with Kenya

The Commander of Combined Task Force 150 (CTF 150), Commodore Daryl Bates, Royal Australian Navy, met the Deputy Commander of the Kenyan Navy, Brigadier C.M. Kahariri, during a regional engagement tour to discuss maritime security with naval leaders in East Africa.

Commodore Bates said: “The Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) and Kenya have enjoyed a productive relationship for many years, and this visit has given us both the opportunity to identify how we may continue our cooperation into the future.

“In response to threats within her sovereign territory, Kenya has made real progress in building her maritime capability and the coordination of assets. These improvements will enhance Kenya’s ability to suppress those who wish to use the maritime environment for illicit purposes.”

He added: “Shared awareness across agencies gives CMF and Kenya the best possible opportunity to coordinate responses to maritime threats. The advantage of a coordinated effort in reducing piracy in the region has already been seen, and must now be extended to deter, disrupt and defeat attempts by international terrorist organisations that use the maritime environment as a venue for an attack or as a means to transport personnel, weapons or other materials.”

Although Kenya is not a member of CMF, Brigadier Kahariri made it clear that the Kenyan Navy strongly endorses the CMF mission, and that it will work with CMF member navies and other regional countries to improve the exchange of information and collaboration.

CTF 150 is one of three task forces commanded by CMF, a multinational naval partnership of 30 nations, which exists to promote security, stability and prosperity across approximately 2.5 million square miles of international waters, which encompass some of the world’s most important shipping lanes. The CTF 150 command element is currently staffed by a team of 25 personnel from the Royal Australian Navy.

Source: Combined Maritime Forces.