December 14, 2024, Mombasa — President William Ruto announced significant enhancements to the Kenya Navy during the service’s 60th anniversary celebration at the Kenya Navy Base in Mtongwe, Mombasa County. The initiative aims to bolster the Navy’s capacity to protect the country’s maritime borders through investments in advanced technologies and fleet modernization.
In his address, President Ruto emphasized the government’s commitment to improving the skills and operational readiness of navy personnel. “Our singular focus will be on maintaining a high state of readiness to ensure that we respond swiftly and effectively to an increasingly dynamic security environment,” he stated.
Recognizing the strategic importance of the Kenya Navy, he praised its role as a deterrent against external threats and as a guardian of national sovereignty. “The Navy’s track record is one to be proud of,” he remarked, highlighting its contributions to both national security and the blue economy.
The President noted that investments in maritime infrastructure would not only enhance naval capabilities but also create opportunities for wealth generation and job creation. “By investing in maritime infrastructure and enhancing its security, we unlock Kenya’s immense untapped potential in the blue economy,” he said.
He lauded the collaboration between the Kenya Navy and the Kenya Coast Guard Service, which he described as the cornerstone of Kenya’s National Maritime Defence Strategy. Together, these institutions work to protect the coastline, combat illegal activities, and secure vital maritime resources.
“Such synergy exemplifies the spirit of multi-agency cooperation essential to our national security,” President Ruto added. He urged members of the disciplined forces to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and integrity, stating, “By working together as one team, we will overcome any challenge and continue to make the Kenya Navy a source of pride for our nation.”
The celebration included the unveiling of a commemorative book titled “Kenya Navy at 60.” Chief of Defence Forces Charles Kahariri acknowledged the Navy’s enduring commitment to safeguarding Kenyan waters, which has garnered admiration both domestically and internationally.
Defence Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya highlighted the Navy’s vital contributions to the blue economy, stating that their efforts in protecting maritime ecosystems align with the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Senate Speaker Amason Kingi, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, and various Cabinet Secretaries, all of whom joined in celebrating the Navy’s achievements and future potential.
