Boost for Kenya as UK trains KDF on how to handle improvised explosives
By Joel Masibo, November 21, 2025The United Kingdom has reaffirmed its commitment to regional security after supporting Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) personnel through a five-week Improvised Explosive Device Disposal (IEDD) course at the Humanitarian Peace Support School (HPSS) in Nairobi.
According to the British High Commission’s statement on Friday, November 21, 2025, the newly trained specialists are now equipped to counter IED threats and bolster African Union and United Nations peacekeeping operations across East Africa.
The training comes at a moment when the KDF is working to restore peace in some parts of Northern Kenya and the neighbouring Somalia, regions regarded as IED-prone.
Evolving explosive threats
Kenya continues to face evolving explosive threats largely driven by the Al-Shabaab militants operating along the Somalia border. Roadside bombs and other IED attacks frequently target civilians and security convoys, causing casualties and disrupting normal life in affected areas.
”Partners for a safer and more secure region! We supported @kdfinfo personnel to complete a 5-week Improvised Explosive Device Disposal course @ Humanitarian Peace Support School. Now fully trained to counter IED threats & support @aussom_ & @UNPeacekeeping across the region,” the British High Commission in Kenya took to X on Friday, November 21, 2025, confirming the course completion.
personnel complete a 5-week Improvised Explosive Device Disposal course @ Humanitarian Peace Support School. PHOTO/Screengrab by People Daily Digital/@UKinKenya/X
HPSS has emerged as a regional hub for counter-IED expertise, providing practical and scenario-based training to enhance the preparedness of Kenyan forces and multinational peacekeepers. Well-trained Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) teams play a vital role in protecting communities, humanitarian workers, and peacekeeping personnel.
The training is expected to help Kenya step up its security surveillance in the country and at the border points. It is also expected to reduce instances of attacks on security personnel in the country through planted explosives.
In 2025 alone, several officers have lost their lives after their vehicles ran over planted explosives. This new training will be handy in tackling such cases.
KDF mission in Somalia
This also happens as Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) troops deployed in Dhobley, Somalia, and serving under the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), are currently undertaking renovation works on the Dhobley Airstrip.
The project, led by the Kenya Army Corps of Engineers, forms part of ongoing Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) activities aimed at enhancing safety, operational efficiency and promoting economic growth in the region.
According to KDF, the ongoing renovations focus on improving key areas essential for aircraft operations, which include bush clearance to enhance visibility and reduce the risk of foreign object debris on the runway, repair of damaged sections of the airstrip, not limited to the Touchdown Zone, while the aircraft turning bay is being graded and reinforced to ensure safe motility.