EAC states urged to strengthen solidarity in maintaining peace and security
NAIROBI: THE 14th EAC Armed Forces Command Post Exercise( Ushirikiano Imara 2026), Head of Mission,Ambassador Lindsay Kiptiness has called on East African Community (EAC) member states to continue strengthening unity, cooperation, and collective preparedness in addressing emerging threats, disasters, and security challenges that may undermine regional peace and stability.
He made the remarks today, May 11, 2026, during a reception for participants of the 14th EAC Armed Forces Command Post Exercise( Ushirikiano Imara 2026), which officially commenced in Nairobi, Kenya.
The exercise has brought together defense and security personnel from Kenya, Tanzania, Burundi, Uganda, Rwanda, Somalia and South Sudan with the aim of enhancing regional cooperation and improving joint response mechanisms to security threats facing the region.
Speaking during the event, Ambassador Kiptiness underscored the strategic importance of the exercise in strengthening the future security architecture of the East African Community. He noted that the evolving nature of global and regional security challenges requires EAC member states to work closely together in safeguarding peace, stability, and the wellbeing of their citizens.
He further explained that, the ongoing conflicts and instability in various parts of the world, particularly in the Middle East and other conflict-prone regions, continue to have direct and indirect effects on the economies, security, and livelihoods of people within the EAC bloc.
Ambassador Kiptiness said such developments highlight the need for stronger regional solidarity, information sharing, and coordinated security responses among partner states.
The Ambassador also emphasized that the (USHIRIKIANO IMARA 2026) exercise provides an important platform for military and security institutions within the EAC to strengthen operational coordination, enhance strategic planning, and build mutual trust among participating countries. He said the exercise demonstrates the region’s collective commitment to maintaining peace and responding effectively to both conventional and emerging security threats.
He reaffirmed that peace and security remain fundamental pillars for sustainable development, regional integration, trade, and economic prosperity within the East African Community urging member states to continue investing in joint initiatives aimed at promoting stability, preventing conflicts, and strengthening disaster preparedness and humanitarian response mechanisms across the region.
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The 14th EAC Armed Forces Command Post Exercise(USHIRIKIANO IMARA 2026) is expected to further deepen cooperation among EAC partner states and reinforce the shared vision of a peaceful, secure, and resilient East African region.
