The East African Community (EAC) has launched the 14th edition of its regional security command post exercise to bolster the continent's collective defense against emerging threats.
Codenamed Ushirikiano Imara, the exercise officially commenced on Thursday at the Humanitarian Peace Support School in Embakasi. The mission brings together military, police, and civilian components from all EAC partner states. Participants are operating under the theme of enhancing regional cooperation and readiness for peace and resilience.
Lieutenant General John Omenda, the Vice Chief of Defence Forces of the Kenya Defence Forces, presided over the opening ceremony. He described the exercise as a vital demonstration of the region’s commitment to unity. He noted that the collaboration will enhance the shared capacity of member states to secure East Africa.
“This unity, spirit of collaboration, discipline, and commitment will strengthen our resilience against threats such as terrorism, piracy, and other emerging challenges in the region,” Lt Gen Omenda said.
The Deputy Secretary General of the EAC, Hon. Andrea Ague Ariik Malueth, emphasized that the mission aligns with the EAC Protocol on Defence Cooperation. He argued that peace and security remain the essential pillars for regional integration. The exercise aims to strengthen multi-agency coordination to protect the socio-economic transformation of the region.
Exercise Director Maj Gen John Nkoimo explained that the command post drills focus on rapid response capabilities. The forces will practice peace support operations, counter-terrorism, and disaster management. Maj Gen Nkoimo added that the exercise also promotes a broader awareness of the EAC integration agenda among the rank and file.
Brig Gen Ernest Nuwagaba reaffirmed the commitment of the participating forces to implement realistic scenarios. He stated that the troops are prepared to achieve the objectives of the exercise as they would occur in real-life situations. The drills involve high-level coordination between land forces and specialized security units.
Several high-ranking dignitaries attended the ceremony, including Uganda’s State Minister for Defence in charge of Veterans Affairs, Huda Abason Oleru. They were joined by military chiefs from Burundi, Tanzania, and Rwanda. The presence of the diplomatic corps and defense attachés further underscored the international significance of the regional security pact.
