As part of its efforts to maintain a regional hub for peacekeeping and security missions, Kenya has taken a strategic step to bolster its defence capabilities.

Following a high-level visit to Egypt by senior officials from the Directorate of National Security Industries (DNSI), the two countries have sealed a deal aimed at enhancing the Kenya Defence Forces’ (KDF) firearms production.

According to the military, the agreement with Egypt will focus on technology transfer, joint training programs, and the local production of key firearms and related equipment.

“The Director General of Kenya’s Directorate of National Security Industries (DNSI), Major General Faustino Lobaly, led a delegation of Senior Officers to Egypt for engagements aimed at advancing bilateral defence industry cooperation,” KDF wrote on X on Saturday, December 20, 2025.

“The engagements were undertaken within the framework of the Kenya–Egypt Joint Military Cooperation Agreement and ongoing bilateral defence collaboration mechanisms. The visit provided exposure to Egypt’s defence manufacturing ecosystem, including production capabilities, technological capacity and operational frameworks.”

KDF’s move is also aimed at reducing reliance on imports, enhancing operational readiness, and positioning Kenya as a regional hub for defence manufacturing and security support.

Among the facilities visited were the Arab International Optronics (AIO) Company and the Engineering Industries Complex, both of which play a central role in Egypt’s defence production ecosystem.

Moreover, this comes even as President William Ruto continues to push African leaders to unite in championing reforms of the United Nations Security Council.

The President said Africa’s exclusion from the UN Security Council is unacceptable and indefensible.

Ruto on security reforms

The Head of State said African leaders must amplify Africa’s voice in every forum, including at bilateral, regional and multilateral platforms, unite in the bid for fair representation at the Security Council, and stand together to defend the Common African Position.

Addressing during the emarks at the 7th Summit of the Committee of 10 (C-10) Heads of State and Government on the Reform of the UN Security Council, convened by the President Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone, during the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly, he pointed out that Africa carries a disproportionate share of the Security Council’s agenda and is among the largest contributors to UN peacekeeping.

“Yet we remain the only continent without permanent representation. This historic injustice must end, the time to act is now,” he said.

President Ruto said the UN’s credibility will be judged by whether it finally delivers justice and representation for Africa.

At the same time, President Ruto asked leaders to be ready to shoulder the responsibilities of permanent membership, including agreeing on how representatives will be chosen.

“This is a delicate and complex undertaking, but also an opportunity to show Africa’s maturity, cohesion, and vision for an effective international order,” he asserted.