The United States through its Secretary of State John Kerry promised Kenya 100 million dollars this year as a boost to the war against terrorism in Kenya. This message was given at a press conference that affirmed the commitment of Washington to fighting terrorism globally.
The first and most crucial counter terrorism measure that Washington has also promised, is to support deradicalization programs to mitigate Kenyan youths joining the terror outfits.
Some of the counter terrorism projects that the money will be used include; border security, law enforcement and intelligence sharing between agents and the two countries. The US participation in counter terrorism strategies is because terror has grown to be a global nuisance that needs to be eradicated by all means necessary.
Kerry noted that violent extremism is spreading at an alarming rate and require prompt collective response from the entire international community. The US brings with them not only the money but also their experience in counter-terrorism seeing as they have dealt with terrorism long before the East African region was struck.
In addition an extra 45 million dollars will be given UNHCR from the US to deal with refugees mainly drawn from Kenya’s war-struck neighbors; South Sudan and Somalia. It was observed that stability in the neighbors would be the only lasting solution for the refugees and by extension reduce the refugee burden on Kenya.
The US is unswerving in the desire to stabilize the region and stem out terrorists in Somalia as it is primary goal in the region that is economical and culturally rich. Kenya is the focal point that will be used to reach the entire region.
