Launch of Kenya's National Action Plan for CBRN Risk Mitigation
The EU support for the development of the Plan is yet another example of practical EU – Kenya cooperation on security and defence matters pursued through a regular dialogue and operational initiatives in a broad range of areas ranging from counterterrorism, cybersecurity and maritime issues to defence capability, police reform and conflict mediation.
After a decade of collaborative work with the EU and regional institutions, Kenya has launched it National Action Plan for CBRN risk mitigation, highlighting Kenya’s leadership and commitment to regional and national security. The EU support for the development of the Plan is yet another example of practical EU – Kenya cooperation on security and defence matters pursued through a regular dialogue and operational initiatives in a broad range of areas ranging from counterterrorism, cybersecurity and maritime issues to defence capability, police reform and conflict mediation.
The launch event was broadcast live, here is a re-play.
The acronym ‘CBRN’ defines chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear materials and agents that could potentially harm the society through their accidental or deliberate release, dissemination, or impacts. As a gateway to East Africa, with the Port of Mombasa, serving as a critical entry point for goods destined throughout the region, Kenya faces unique CBRN challenges. The plan, which will need to be implemented by all relevant agencies through the national budget as well as external support, outlines a roadmap for mitigating these challenges, protecting Kenyan citizens and strengthening national and regional security.
Kenya was among the first African countries to join the EU CBRN Centres of Excellence Initiative in 2012, and since 2021, hosts the Regional Secretariat for Eastern and Central Africa of the EU’s CBRN Risk Mitigation Centres of Excellence (CoE) Initiative. With the launch of its national plan today, Kenya join Malawi, Rwanda, Zambia and Tanzania in formalizing comprehensive CBRN action plans. This creates and opportunity for eventual development and implementation of regional action plan, that would further strengthen risk mitigation across national borders in Eastern and Central Africa. The European Union remain committed to work with Kenya and other countries in the region on the work in this and other security and defence areas.
Hongera sana Kenya.