President Biden announced his intent to designate Kenya as a major non-NATO U.S. ally, making it the first sub-Saharan African country to receive this designation. The announcement came during Kenyan President William Ruto’s state visit to the White House, coinciding with the 60th anniversary of U.S.-Kenyan diplomatic relations. The president highlighted the collaboration between the two countries on counterterrorism operations, support for Ukraine, and efforts in Haiti to reduce instability and insecurity. The major non-NATO ally designation provides foreign partners with defense, trade, and security cooperation benefits.
Presidents can grant the major non-NATO ally designation to countries with close strategic relationships with the United States. Once the president informs Congress of the decision, there is a 30-day period before the designation goes into effect. This move signifies the close relationship between the U.S. and Kenya and signals increased cooperation on security and mutual priorities. Kenyan police officers are set to arrive in Haiti to assist in quelling gang violence, with the U.S. also providing intelligence and equipment for the effort.
During a joint press conference with President Ruto, President Biden emphasized the importance of addressing gang violence and criminal activity, stating that gangs and criminals do not have nationalities, religions, or languages. Ruto stressed the need to deal with them firmly and decisively within the parameters of the law. The international coalition forming to combat these challenges includes contributions from various nations beyond Kenya and the U.S. President Biden had previously pledged to visit the African continent in 2023 but has yet to schedule a trip. He mentioned that if reelected, he plans to visit in February 2025.
The major non-NATO ally designation for Kenya underscores the strong relationship between the two countries and the collaborative efforts on shared security and global priorities. The move also recognizes the significant contributions of Kenya in addressing regional challenges, such as terrorism and instability in Haiti. The joint statement issued by President Biden and President Ruto emphasized the importance of this designation as a symbol of the close ties between the U.S. and Kenya, leading to increased cooperation in various areas.
As a major non-NATO ally, Kenya will receive benefits in defense, trade, and security cooperation, enhancing its capabilities to address security challenges both domestically and internationally. The collaboration between the U.S. and Kenya in counterterrorism operations, support for Ukraine, and efforts in Haiti demonstrates a commitment to shared values and interests. The joint efforts of the two countries, along with contributions from other nations, highlight the importance of international cooperation in addressing complex security threats and promoting stability and peace in affected regions.
President Biden’s announcement of Kenya as a major non-NATO ally reflects a strategic decision to deepen the partnership between the United States and Kenya, recognizing the country’s significant contributions to regional security and global stability. The move comes at a pivotal time when international cooperation is crucial in addressing emerging security challenges and promoting peace and security worldwide. The joint efforts of the U.S., Kenya, and other nations in tackling issues like terrorism, gang violence, and instability demonstrate a commitment to working together to address common threats and advance shared interests.
