BREAKING: US To Designate Kenya As Its First Major Non-NATO Ally 

BREAKING: US To Designate Kenya As Its First Major Non-NATO Ally 

The United States has announced its intention to designate Kenya as its first major non-NATO ally in sub-Saharan Africa, marking a significant development in diplomatic ties between the two nations.

This announcement coincides with the state visit of Kenya’s President William Ruto to the U.S., where he was welcomed by President Joe Biden.

The process of this designation involves President Biden informing Congress, with the designation coming into effect after a period of 30 days.

This move signifies a deepening of the relationship between Kenya and the United States, particularly in areas of trade and security cooperation.

The official said the move aims at “elevating and acknowledging that Kenya is already a global partner of ours.”

One of the key focuses of President Ruto’s visit is to strengthen the partnership between the two countries, with a special emphasis on trade and security collaboration.

Both nations have committed to leading a UN-backed multinational effort to restore stability in Haiti, which has been facing significant challenges due to gang-related violence.

Being designated as a major non-NATO ally grants Kenya access to military and financial benefits typically afforded to members of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization.

During their discussions, President Ruto and President Biden are addressing Kenya’s proposal to deploy 1,000 security personnel to support efforts in Haiti, a mission that the U.S. has pledged $300 million to support.

Despite facing political and legal obstacles in Kenya, the initiative to support Haiti has been a crucial point of discussion.

President Ruto’s meetings with Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin and Secretary of State Antony Blinken are significant steps in moving forward with this mission.

While challenges exist, the commitment from both sides highlights the importance of international cooperation in addressing global security threats and challenges.

“This is an ongoing area of collaboration,” the official said.