President William Ruto has communicated plans to combat security threats in the country and regionally by strengthening the defence forces.

Speaking while presiding over the third graduation ceremony at the National Defence University-Kenya in Lanet, Nakuru County, on Friday, November 21, 2025, the Head of State announced plans to empower the military.

He explained that KDF is evolving by adopting cutting-edge training, advanced research, and modern technology, including artificial intelligence, to ensure they stay ahead of emerging threats.

Ruto then urged officers to use the skills, especially strategic and critical thinking, that they have been trained in to confront and resolve the complex challenges ahead.

strengthening the defence forces

”We are strengthening our defence forces through cutting-edge training, advanced research, and modern technology, including Artificial Intelligence, to ensure they stay ahead of emerging threats. This investment equips our men and women in uniform to tackle complex challenges with confidence and precision,” Ruto said.

”With strong institutions like the National Defence University-Kenya driving innovation, our security architecture grows more agile, capable, and ready to shield our nation from fast-evolving threats now and in the future,” he added.

Ruto’s declaration comes at a moment when the 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.

UK partnership

”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.

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.

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.