Kenya has signalled a renewed push to strengthen defence and maritime security cooperation with Spain, following high-level talks held on the sidelines of the Responsible Use of Artificial Intelligence in the Military (REAIM) Summit in A Coruña.
Defence Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya met her Spanish counterpart, Margarita Robles, in discussions that focused on maritime security collaboration and emerging defence technologies, including artificial intelligence.
The meeting reaffirmed the long-standing cordial relations between Kenya and Spain, with both sides acknowledging Spain’s sustained engagement in maritime security efforts within the Western Indian Ocean.
Maritime security remains a key concern for Kenya, given its strategic coastline and exposure to threats such as piracy, illicit trafficking, and cyber-related risks to critical infrastructure.
Spain has been an active international partner in regional maritime security initiatives, a role that was recognised during the talks.
The two defence chiefs also highlighted Spain’s leadership in advocating for the ethical, responsible, and lawful use of artificial intelligence in military operations.
Kenya’s participation in the REAIM Summit was framed as part of Nairobi’s broader commitment to responsible technology governance in defence, at a time when artificial intelligence is increasingly shaping modern warfare and security planning.
According to the Defence CS, the meeting explored opportunities to deepen bilateral engagement in areas including naval training, technical support and maintenance, maritime domain awareness, cyber security, and cooperation in artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies.
These areas align with Kenya’s efforts to modernise its defence capabilities while adhering to international norms and legal frameworks.
Kenya also reaffirmed its active engagement in the REAIM process and its interest in contributing to the development of global norms governing the military application of artificial intelligence.
The country expressed its intention to continue collaborating with Spain on defence innovation, capacity building, and technology governance.
The bilateral meeting was attended by Kenya’s Ambassador to Spain, Nairimas Sharon Ole Sein, Brigadier Yusuf Adan, the Chief of the Kenya Defence Forces Communication Information System, and senior officials from both delegations.