Download logoThe evolving security environment in East Africa continues to demand stronger cooperation, shared understanding and coordinated action. For East African Community (EAC) Partner States, joint exercises provide an important platform to test capabilities, strengthen coordination and enhance regional preparedness.
This was underscored during the three-day Concept Development Conference (CDC) for the 14th EAC Armed Forces Field Training Exercise, Ushirikiano Imara 2027, held at the Humanitarian Peace Support School (HPSS), Kenya. The Conference brought together senior military representatives and planners from EAC Partner States, alongside representatives from the Police, Civilian and other actors.
Convened pursuant to Article 2 of the Protocol on Cooperation in Defence Affairs of the EAC and the Defence Sector Calendar of Activities, the Conference focused on developing and refining the concept and framework for the Field Training Exercise (FTX).
The General Officer Commanding Central Command, Major General William Kamoiro, highlighted the need for EAC Partner States to work closely together in safeguarding regional peace and stability. He noted that Ushirikiano Imara reflects the shared commitment to collective security while strengthening the preparedness of participating forces.
Delivering remarks on behalf of the EAC Secretary General, Amb. Stephen Patrick Mbundi, Uganda’s Defence Liaison Officer, Brigadier General Matthew Gureme, appreciated Kenya’s role and Partner States’ participation in advancing preparations for Ushirikiano Imara 2027, to be held in Kisumu Kenya.
He highlighted the importance of multi-agency cooperation and called for consolidation of lessons learnt from the concluded CPX in May 2026, to inform the upcoming FTX, noting that the exercise would translate tested command structures and coordination mechanisms into practical field activities.
The Chairperson of the Conference, Brigadier Emmanuel Kazahura, urged delegates to translate the CPX experience into a credible field training design. He called for realistic and coherent scenarios that respond to emerging security challenges and provide meaningful training value.
The Conference concluded with the signing of the Concept Development Report by representatives of EAC Partner States, marking a shared commitment to the agreed framework and paving the way for the next phase of planning.
The milestone sets the stage for Ushirikiano Imara 2027 to translate collective planning into practical action, strengthening regional cooperation, interoperability and operational readiness.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Defence - Kenya.
