Maritime security plays an important role in national, regional and international stability. The maritime domain supports global trade, economic activity and strategic interests, making cooperation, information sharing and strong partnerships essential to keeping sea lanes safe.
Naval engagements give maritime forces an opportunity to build professional relationships, exchange knowledge and improve their ability to respond together to changing maritime security challenges.
On 8 September 2026, Commander Kenya Navy Base Mtongwe, Brigadier William Kiprotich, accompanied by senior Kenya Navy officers, visited the United States Ship (USS) ROSS at the Port of Mombasa for bilateral engagements with the United States Navy. The two navies exchanged views on maritime security, shared professional experiences and discussed areas where they could strengthen cooperation. The visit also reinforced the longstanding defence partnership between Kenya and the United States and their shared interest in maintaining a safe and secure maritime environment.
During the visit, Brigadier Kiprotich met with the Chargé d’Affaires of the United States Embassy in Nairobi, Ms Susan Burns. They discussed ways to strengthen bilateral relations and deepen defence and maritime cooperation between Kenya and the United States.
Personnel from both navies also took part in crew-to-crew activities to build stronger professional and personal relationships. Sailors from the two navies competed in friendly chess and football matches at Kenya Navy Base Mtongwe, giving them an opportunity to interact outside their formal duties.
The activities allowed personnel from both navies to strengthen their relationships, learn more about each other’s cultures and promote friendship, teamwork and mutual respect, which support effective military cooperation.
The visit showed the role of naval diplomacy in strengthening partnerships, improving interoperability and building mutual understanding. Through continued dialogue, professional exchanges and joint activities, the Kenya Navy and United States Navy are building stronger cooperation to support maritime security and contribute to peace and stability in the region.
source: Ministry of Defence Kenya
