United States President Donald Trump has lauded gains made by Kenya Defense Forces in the fight against islamist militants Al-Shabaab, as Kenya intensified her operations against the terrorists group.
Through State Department on Defense, Trump said he is 'happy with the gains', adding that Washington will support the KDF troops to degrade the militants.
“The United States commended the sacrifice of the Kenya Defence Forces in Somalia,” read a statement that was issued on Wednesday in presence of Foreign Affairs minister Monica Juma.
It added, “Both sides committed to enhance counterterrorism, defence and maritime surveillance security cooperation through intelligence sharing and capacity building.
US reaffirmed her support to all KDF initiatives through United Nations, adding that Kenya is an important partner both in strategic development and security. While Washington did not immediately reveal the future collaboration plans, the announcement may prolong KDF stay in Somalia.
Tentatively, DoD has planned to have soldiers withdraw by 2021, q decision which may no longer hold waters. KDF soldiers joined UN sponsored AMISOM in 2012, a year into Kenya's invasion in Somalia.
“The two governments reaffirmed their commitment to degrade Al-Shabaab and agreed to work with UN Security Council partners to sanction Al-Shabaab and other terror groups operating in the Horn of Africa.”
Despite the gains, Kenya has suffered numerous casualties which include increased internal attacks and death of over 200 soldiers at KDF camp in El-Adde in 2016.