Nairobi–KNN-Prime Minister Theresa May has said she will authorise a new funding deal to support Kenyan soldiers fighting in Somalia and to help combat terrorism.
As part of efforts to combat terrorism in the region, Mrs May said she would announce a new funding deal for the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) troops in Somalia as to support Kenya in the fight against terrorism.
Mrs May said: “The UK continues to support the commitment of brave Kenyan soldiers fighting in Somalia against the Al-Shabaab and I’ll announce a new package of funding to support the AMISOM.”
She added: “We also want a transition to stronger Somali security forces. As we work towards this, we’re leading international efforts to ensure that AMISOM has the funding it needs to support its vital battle against terror.”
Mrs May also committed to keeping the existing duty-free and quota-free arrangement for Kenyan imports the UK after leaving the European Union in March next year, during the press conference with Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta.
She said the UK was keen on a smooth transition post-Brexit that will ensure stability for both countries.
Mrs May said: “As Britain prepares to leave the European Union, we’re committed to a smooth transition that ensures continuity in our trading relationship with Kenya, ensuring Kenya retains its duty-free and quota-free access to the UK market.”
She added: “We wish to build our strong trade and investment ties to create even more opportunities for our businesses and consumers.”
President Kenyatta also committed to improving existing trade agreements with the UK.
He said: “We welcome the Prime Minister’s assurance that the current duty-free and quota-free for Kenyan exports will continue after Brexit.
Kenya will be pressing for an increased in exports on the basis of a fair market arraignment with a view of a mutual win-win arrangement.”
Mrs May had been on her first tour African continent since becoming Prime Minister as she visits South Africa and Nigeria, as well as Kenya.
She was welcomed by a 19-gun salute in addition to a guard of honour mounted by the Kenya Air Force.
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