US Begins Reviewing Kenya’s Non-NATO Ally Status: 5 Privileges at Risk

US Senator Jim Risch has moved an amendment in the US Congress to push for a review of Kenya's non-NATO Ally status, which was designated during President William Ruto's state visit in 2024.

Owing to Kenya's recent ties with China and Russia, the US senator is seeking to have the US review Kenya's status.

What is at risk: In the event that the status is revoked, Kenya will cease enjoying military and economic privileges. This includes ease in accessing military weapons from the US.

‍In the event that the status is revoked, Kenya will cease enjoying military and economic privileges. These are the risks Kenya faces:

Priority for US weapons: Kenya would lose its access to surplus US military gear, including weapons and aircraft.

Special ammunition: The country would no longer be eligible to buy special ammunition, like depleted uranium rounds.

Military cooperation: Opportunities for joint training exercises with US forces and collaborative defense research projects would be put at risk.

Defense loans and research: Kenya would lose the ability to easily borrow US military materials for research, testing, or evaluation purposes.

Counter-terrorism funding: Funding for critical anti-terrorism projects, such as developing explosive detection devices, could be cut.

Why the Review?

In his amendment, the Senator is seeking to have Congress establish the status of the military and security agreements and activities that have taken place between Kenya and China, Russia, and Iran since June 24, 2024.

The Senator also wants Congress to establish if there are political and financial links between Kenyan politicians and China, Russia, and Iran.

Also listed for assessment is the relationship between Kenyan officials and nonstate armed groups, such as the Rapid Support Forces (RFS).

"Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of State, in coordination with the Secretary of Defense and the Director of National Intelligence, shall submit to the appropriate committees of Congress a classified report containing the findings of the review required by subsection," read the amendment in part.

"Including an assessment of the use by the Government of Kenya of United States security assistance and intelligence support  and sharing, including potential impacts on state and nonstate-sponsored actions against civilians, to include abductions, torture, renditions, and violence."