The United Kingdom government has reinstated the previously cancelled Exercise HARAKA STORM, allowing the military training program at the British Army Training Unit Kenya (BATUK) in Laikipia County to proceed later this year.
Prime Cabinet Secretary and Foreign Affairs Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi confirmed the development, describing it as a reflection of the strong and enduring partnership between Kenya and the United Kingdom.
“The Government of Kenya welcomes the decision for the planned military training exercise at the British Army Training Unit Kenya to proceed,” Mudavadi said.
He added that the decision demonstrates the two countries’ longstanding relationship, built on mutual respect, constructive engagement, and a shared commitment to peace and security.
Exercise HARAKA STORM to Proceed From September to November
The six-week combat training exercise, dubbed Exercise HARAKA STORM, is now scheduled to take place between September and November, following successful consultations between Kenyan and British authorities.
The training had initially been cancelled on July 23 after Kenya and the UK reportedly failed to agree on conditions for the renewal of licenses governing the military exercise.
However, British authorities indicated that detailed planning by the Army made it possible to maintain the original training period despite the earlier disruption.
“As a result, and following detailed work by the Army, we believe that it is possible to deliver the training in Kenya over the same time period as previously planned. Exercise HARAKA STORM will now take place later this year,” the UK government said.
Mudavadi Highlights Kenya-UK Defence Cooperation
Mudavadi emphasized that the resumption of the exercise is aimed at strengthening long-term defence cooperation between the two nations.
“As we look ahead, Kenya remains committed to working closely with the United Kingdom to deepen our longstanding defence cooperation and advance our shared commitment to peace, security and regional stability,” he stated.
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, continued collaboration with BATUK is expected to strengthen the operational capabilities of the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) while enhancing regional security and supporting economic opportunities, particularly for communities in Laikipia County.
Gachagua Alleged Bribery Demands Behind Initial Cancellation
The earlier suspension of Exercise HARAKA STORM sparked political controversy after former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua alleged that senior government officials demanded a Ksh3 billion bribe from the British government during negotiations.
Gachagua claimed that Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot and unnamed senior officials within the Ministry of Defence were involved in the alleged demand, which he said delayed negotiations for nearly eight months and nearly resulted in the military exercise being relocated to Tanzania.
According to Gachagua, the British delegation questioned the purpose of the alleged payment and declined to proceed under those conditions.
The allegations have not been substantiated, and no official findings or evidence have been presented to support the claims. Kenyan and British authorities have not attributed the earlier cancellation to bribery allegations.
BATUK Continues to Face Scrutiny
The reinstatement comes despite ongoing public concerns and legal scrutiny surrounding BATUK over alleged human rights violations raised in recent years.
Even so, the Kenyan government maintains that continued defence cooperation with the UK serves Kenya’s national interests by enhancing military readiness, promoting regional peace, and creating employment opportunities for residents of Laikipia and surrounding areas.