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Kenya, Qatar strengthen ties with focus on security cooperation

Defence Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale hosted the Qatar Ambassador to Kenya Mutair Al-Enazi at the Ministry of Defence Headquarters in Nairobi. (X/Adan Duale)

By Terry Muriuki | Thursday, June 6, 2024

Kenya and Qatar have a history of strong bilateral relations, marked by economic and diplomatic cooperation.

Defence Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale hosted the Qatar Ambassador to Kenya Mutair Al-Enazi at the Ministry of Defence Headquarters in Nairobi and discussed strengthening bilateral relations between Kenya and Qatar, focusing on security cooperation and mutual interests in the Horn of Africa

CS Duale and Ambassador Al-Enazi also discussed the pending Defense Cooperation Agreement, which includes critical areas such as intelligence sharing, joint military training, and counter-terrorism efforts.

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"This included ongoing training of a Kenyan Officer in Doha and an invitation for Qatar to participate in the Joint Command and Staff Course (JCSC)," Duale said on his X account.

Kenya and Qatar have a history of strong bilateral relations, marked by economic and diplomatic cooperation. Over 65,000 Kenyan workers are currently employed in Qatar, significantly contributing to its economic development while benefiting from employment opportunities.

In attendance at the meeting were Brig. Richard Mwanzia, Chief of Policy and Plans at the Defence Headquarters, and Abdishakur Sheikh Hussein, Director of the Middle East Directorate at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The discussions further highlighted the importance of the defence partnership in enhancing regional security and stability. Both sides acknowledged the mutual benefits of the ongoing cooperation and expressed commitment to further strengthening their defence ties.

This morning, I hosted the Qatar Ambassador to Kenya, H.E. Mutair Al-Enazi, at the Ministry of Defence Headquarters in Nairobi.

The courtesy call underscored the strengthening bilateral relations between Kenya and Qatar, focusing on security cooperation and mutual interests in… pic.twitter.com/h3nGBzyKYR
— Hon. Aden Duale, EGH (@HonAdenDuale) June 6, 2024

The historical ties between Kenya and Qatar have evolved over the years, with both nations collaborating in various sectors. Qatar's investment in Kenya has been notable, with Qatari businesses showing interest in the country's infrastructure and real estate sectors.

Trade Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria last year revealed the Arkan Investment Group pledged to support Kenya Kwanza's proposed projects, including Kileleshwa City and the Nairobi Pesa City Financial District.

“The Arkan Investment Group has pledged to invest in the planned Kileleshwa City, the Nairobi Pesa City Financial District, the affordable housing, and Downtown Nairobi at Railway City, according to the statement,” the CS said in a tweet.

Kuria said the investors have consented to contribute funds to the Sh30 billion Railway City project’s development in Downtown Nairobi.

Additionally, the two countries have engaged in cultural exchanges and educational collaborations, further solidifying their relationship.