King Charles and Queen Camilla visited the Mtongwe Naval Base in Mombasa, Kenya, as part of a groundbreaking collaboration between the UK Royal Marines and Kenyan security forces.

The UK Royal Marines have a long-standing commitment to combating crime and terrorism, providing essential training and support. Their visit to the Mtongwe Naval Base is a testament to this partnership, demonstrating defense collaboration in action.

During this visit, Their Majesties witnessed the Kenyan Marines in action. These marines have undergone rigorous training by the Royal Marines, including a 12-week program covering physical fitness and amphibious assault techniques. Known as the Kenyan Marine Commando Unit (KMCU), this elite force is equipped to conduct specialized amphibious operations, countering threats both at sea and on land, particularly against groups like al-Shabaab.

The Royal Marines’ involvement has not only enhanced Kenya’s counterterrorism capabilities but has also created a self-sustaining training cycle. This initiative will allow the Kenyan Navy to train its Marine Commandos, ensuring ongoing preparedness.

The collaboration extends to the United States, which has provided the Kenyan Marine Commando Unit with essential equipment. This marks a significant milestone in the defense relationship between Kenya, the UK, and the United States.

Captain Toby Robinson, in charge of the UK’s 40 Commando training team in Kenya, expressed his pride in this historic achievement, emphasizing the transfer of skills, mindset, values, and ethos from the Royal Marines to the Kenyan forces.

This partnership comes as Kenya continues to face security threats, especially from the Al-Shabaab militants crossing the Kenya-Somalia border. The collaboration between the Royal Marines, Kenyan forces, and support from the United States further strengthens Kenya’s security efforts in the region.