East African Community Launches 14th Regional Security Exercise in Nairobi

Military, police and civilian personnel from across East Africa gathered in Nairobi on 13 May 2026 for the launch of the 14th East African Community Armed Forces Command Post Exercise named Ushirikiano Imara 2026. The exercise, hosted at the Humanitarian Peace Support School, brought together participants from all eight EAC member states under the theme Enhancing Regional Cooperation and Readiness for Peace, Security and Resilience.

Ambassador Lindsey Kiptiness spoke during the opening ceremony.

She said EAC countries must work together more closely to address emerging challenges affecting stability, economic growth and the wellbeing of citizens across the bloc. Kiptiness observed that conflicts and instability in different parts of the world continue to have ripple effects on the region.

Kiptiness noted that exercises such as Ushirikiano Imara provide a platform for member states to improve joint operations, information sharing and coordinated responses to both conventional and emerging threats.

AllAfrica reported that officials described the joint drill as designed to strengthen coordination, interoperability and collective response mechanisms as the region faces increasingly complex security threats that cut across borders. Major General John Nkoimo, the Exercise Director and General Officer Commanding Central Command, addressed the same ceremony.

He said the changing security environment requires EAC partner states to enhance collaboration in safeguarding peace and protecting communities across the region.

Nkoimo said the exercise reflects the bloc's commitment to collective security and improved operational readiness through joint planning and training. The multi-agency exercise will test command and coordination structures. It will enhance the region's capacity to respond to humanitarian emergencies, security crises and peace support operations.