Kenya is considering a new defence cooperation agreement that would see French soldiers granted diplomatic-style privileges and immunities while operating in the country.
The Defence Cooperation Agreement between Kenya and France has been tabled in the National Assembly and forwarded to the Departmental Committee on Defence for review, triggering a public participation process.
In a notice issued on Wednesday, December 17, the Clerk of the National Assembly, Samuel Njoroge, invited members of the public and stakeholders to submit their views before Parliament considers ratifying the pact.
The agreement, tabled on November 27, establishes a legal framework governing the presence and activities of visiting forces from both countries. It aims to strengthen bilateral cooperation in defence and security, including military training, joint exercises, capacity building and intelligence sharing.
Under the proposed deal, Kenya would be required to accord visiting French forces specific privileges, immunities and logistical support during agreed defence activities, while ensuring all operations comply with national laws, sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The agreement was signed in October at the Ministry of Defence headquarters in Nairobi by Defence Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya and French Ambassador Arnaud Suquet.
Public memoranda on the proposed deal are to be submitted to the Clerk of the National Assembly by December 31, 2025.
