Kenya Defense Forces (KDF) troops from Engineering department are in Cameroon where they are learning from the West Africa nation on ways to counter terrorism using new technology and development.

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The engineering corps in Cameroon have successfully developed regions under Boko Haram threat by building new roads thus making them accessible. This, it's said, helps in countering the militants.

And for a week now, Kenyan delegation from ministry of Transport, KDF and Marsabit Governor General Muhamed Ali, have pitched tent in Cameroon, where they are learning how the military works on road Development.

Ali said the new technology will help KDF link Northern Kenya to Somalia through new roads. Besides enhancing trade, he said, the roads will help KDF handle the militants easily during an incursion.

"The military was challenged with a very very unique situation which is nor very normal in their line of duty. Because of serious level of insecurity where contractors have not been able to show any interest to undertake major construction work in the area infested by Boko Haram, they showed leadership and undertook that serious national project," he told Voice of America.

Kenyan General James Gitiba, who was also in Cameroon, said African militaries will contribute more to reducing pain and suffering in the continent's several conflict zones if they also embrace development initiatives that go beyond simply fighting enemies.

"Most militaries in Africa are known for the various basic function of enhancing mobility which is basically clearing a route for the troops to pass and also survivability. So for Cameroon this is a milestone and I think I could also urge other friendly countries to come here and learn," he said.

Since 2011, KDF has pitched tent in Somalia where it has made gains and losses in equal measure. The troops were able to liberate the notorious Kismayu town in 2012 where Al-Shabaab had made their temporary headquarters.

But in 2016, KDF lost over 200 soldiers at El-Adde town, Gedo region, when Al-Shabaab ran over its camp. Poor roads across the border has made it difficult for KDF to launch successful attacks against the militants.