VAdm Sanjay Mahindru, Deputy Chief of the Naval Staff (DCNS) is on a three day official visit to Kenya from June 21-23, 2023. His visit coincides with Indian Naval Ship Sunayna making port call at Mombasa as part of the ‘Ocean Ring of Yoga’ initiative of the Government of India as part of the 9th International Day of Yoga (21 June 2023) celebrations. (https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1933722)

The DCNS called on H.E. Aden Bare Duale, Cabinet Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Kenya on June 21, 2023. During the interaction, historical ties between the two maritime neighbours were highlighted and avenues of strengthening bilateral defence relations were discussed. He also called on General Francis O Ogolla, Chief of Defence Forces, Kenyan Defence Forces (KDF). Key aspects of enhancing coordinated operations in the maritime domain and bolstering interoperability between the Indian Navy and the Kenya Navy were discussed during the interaction. Reaffirming the importance of maintaining peace, stability and good order in the region through joint and coordinated operations, the need to further collaborate and tackle common maritime challenges was also highlighted. The DCNS also interacted with the members of GLOCEPS (Global Centre for Policy and Strategy) at Nairobi.

VAdm Mahindru is scheduled to visit Mtongwe Naval Base, Mombasa and interact with Commander, Kenya Navy at the Kenya Navy Headquarters (KNHQ). The DCNS along with the Chief of Defence Forces, KDF will oversee the Harbour Phase activities of the ongoing Maritime Partnership Exercise (MPX) between the two navies and would also interact with the crew of INS Sunayna. He would also be provided insights into Kenya Naval Training College and Kenya Shipyard Limited at Mombasa.

The visit of the Deputy Chief of the Naval Staff, reaffirms the strong and long standing relationship between Kenya and India and will further consolidate bilateral defence cooperation with Kenya, particularly in the maritime realm.