The fourth meeting of the Joint Defence Cooperation Committee (JDCC) between India and Kenya was held in Nairobi between 24 and 26 February 2026. The discussions focused on expanding service engagements, enhancing training opportunities, strengthening maritime security cooperation and promoting collaboration in defence research and production. Both countries expressed satisfaction with progress since the previous JDCC meeting and agreed to formulate a five year roadmap to deepen and expand defence cooperation.

Authorities agreed to broaden the scope of service to service engagements, including initiating structured interactions between the two navies. Deliberations covered cooperation in customised training programmes, instituting military exercises, border management and capacity building in advanced domains such as electronic warfare and cyber security, together with cooperation in military medical services including training and knowledge exchange. The meeting was co-chaired by the Joint Secretary (IC) and Major General Fredrick L. Leuria, Assistant Chief of Defence Forces, Kenya, with an Indian delegation that included senior officers from the Department of Defence, Services and the Directorate General Armed Forces Medical Services (DGAFMS).

The Indian delegation called on the Chief of Defence Forces General Charles Kahariri and the Principal Secretary Defence Dr Patrick Mariru and briefed them on the key outcomes of the fourth India Kenya JDCC. Delegates also interacted with the Commandant of the National Defence College (NDC), Kenya, Lt Gen Juma Shee Mwinyikai, who outlined the role of the NDC in preparing Kenyan defence forces and civilians for strategic higher roles. Both sides discussed practical steps to further strengthen defence training cooperation between India and Kenya.

The delegation also met the Commander of the Kenya Navy Maj Gen Paul Otieno at the Mtongwe naval base to discuss deeper naval cooperation and visited the CT scan radiology centre and the Kenya Naval Training College to study military medical infrastructure and training initiatives. The Joint Secretary paid homage at the Joint India Africa Commemorative Memorial at Mile 27 in Taita Taveta County to honour the valour and sacrifice of unknown Indian and African soldiers who fell in the East African theatre during World War I, reaffirming shared respect for their sacrifice. India attaches great importance to its relationship with Kenya, which is anchored in historical links, shared democratic values and close people to people ties.