Regional forces gather in Nairobi for EAC security exercise Ushirikiano Imara 2026

The 14th East African Community (EAC) Armed Forces Command Post Exercise, Ushirikiano Imara 2026, officially commenced in Nairobi, bringing together military, police and civilian personnel from all eight EAC member states in a renewed push for regional security cooperation.

Held under the theme “Enhancing Regional Cooperation and Readiness for Peace, Security and Resilience", the exercise seeks to strengthen interoperability, coordination and joint response mechanisms against emerging security threats affecting the region.

Speaking during the opening ceremony at the Humanitarian Peace Support School in Nairobi, Ambassador Lindsey Kiptiness underscored the importance of unity among EAC partner states in confronting modern security challenges that increasingly transcend national borders.

He noted that instability and conflicts in different parts of the world, including the Middle East and other volatile regions, continue to impact economies, security and livelihoods within the EAC bloc, making regional solidarity and coordinated responses more critical than ever.

“Today’s security challenges transcend national borders and require a united regional approach. Through exercises such as Ushirikiano Imara, we continue to strengthen our collective ability to respond effectively to threats while promoting peace, stability and prosperity within the East African Community,” said Kiptiness.

The Head of Mission further emphasised the need for enhanced information sharing, preparedness and collaboration among member states in addressing both conventional and emerging threats.

Exercise Director and General Officer Commanding Central Command, Major General John Nkoimo, echoed the sentiments, saying the evolving security landscape demands closer cooperation among EAC countries to safeguard regional peace and protect citizens.

“This exercise demonstrates our shared commitment towards collective security, interoperability and regional solidarity. Through joint training, we continue to enhance our preparedness and ability to respond effectively to contemporary security challenges facing our region,” he stated.

The Ushirikiano Imara exercise is expected to provide a platform for participating states to test command structures, improve coordination capabilities and strengthen collective readiness in handling security crises, humanitarian emergencies and peace support operations across the region.