Kenya-Somalia Joint Military Exercise Begins in Garissa Amid Tensions
Despite diplomatic strains, Kenyan and Somali forces launch a week-long counter-terrorism drill in Garissa, signaling that battlefield cooperation remains intact even as political ties fray.
Boots on the Ground, Not Words
GARISSA — Over 800 troops from the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) and the Somali National Army (SNA) kicked off Exercise Eagle Shield 2025 on October 24, 2025, at the Garissa Military Training Grounds. The drill focuses on urban combat, border interdiction, and explosive ordnance disposal—skills critical in the fight against Al-Shabaab.
The exercise proceeds despite Somalia’s expulsion of Kenya’s deputy ambassador just 24 hours earlier. Military officials from both sides insist that operational coordination remains unaffected by political disputes.
“Soldiers don’t do politics. We share the same enemy, and this training saves lives on both sides of the border,” said KDF Colonel James Kiprono, co-director of the exercise.
Practical Cooperation Amid Diplomatic Chill
The joint drill was planned six months ago under the ATMIS framework, with funding from the European Union Peace Facility. Scenarios include mock ambushes in Mandera-style terrain and simulated IED clearance in built-up areas.
Somali troops arrived via a UN-contracted Ilyushin Il-76, landing at Garissa Airstrip under tight security. Kenyan instructors from the International Peace Support Training Centre (IPSTC) lead modules on night vision operations and drone countermeasures.
“We train together, bleed together, and win together. That bond is stronger than any embassy row,” remarked SNA Major Hassan Ali, a veteran of Kismayo operations.
A Fragile Firewall
Analysts see the exercise as a firewall preventing total breakdown. “The military-to-military channel is the last functioning bridge,” said Dr. Mustafa Ali of the Horn Institute in Nairobi. “If this collapses, Al-Shabaab wins.”
Civilian observers from IGAD and the UN Monitoring Group are present to ensure transparency. Live-fire phases are restricted to designated ranges, with strict rules of engagement.
Local leaders in Garissa County welcomed the troops, providing logistical support and cultural performances. Residents hope the presence will deter cross-border raids.
As the week-long exercise unfolds, diplomats in Nairobi and Mogadishu watch closely—knowing that success on the training ground may buy time for cooler heads in the foreign ministries.
