Why the review is happening
The United States Senate has started a process to review Kenya’s position as a major non-NATO ally, a title it received on June 24, 2024. Senator James Risch made the proposal, which directs top U.S. officials to begin the review within 90 days after the law is passed.
Who will carry out the review
The work will be led by the U.S. Secretary of State, working together with the Secretaries of Defense and Treasury, and the Director of National Intelligence. They will prepare a detailed report for specific committees in both the Senate and the House of Representatives.
What the review will focus on
The report will look at how Kenya works with the United States to fight violent extremism, keep peace in Africa and Haiti, and contribute to United Nations peacekeeping. It will also cover Kenya’s role as an economic partner.
The review will check Kenya’s military and security relationships with China, Russia, and Iran. This includes any agreements, engagements, or joint activities since June 2024. Political and financial links between Kenyan leaders and these countries will also be examined.
Concerns over security and trade ties
U.S. officials will investigate any links between Kenyan officials and nonstate armed groups or violent extremist organisations like al-Shabaab and the Rapid Support Forces.
Trade and investment connections with China will also come under focus, especially Kenya’s involvement in the Belt and Road Initiative, its debt arrangements, and other business ties.
Financial and human rights questions
Part of the review will assess whether Kenya is a financial safe haven for individuals or groups on U.S. sanctions lists, including those connected to foreign terrorist organisations in countries such as South Sudan, Sudan, Uganda, and Somalia.
It will also look at how U.S. security assistance and intelligence sharing is being used, especially in relation to alleged actions against civilians, including abductions, torture, renditions, and violence.
What the outcome could mean
Major non-NATO ally status gives Kenya closer security and trade cooperation with the United States, though it does not include a defence guarantee. The findings of this review could shape the future of military, economic, and diplomatic relations between the two nations.
