Kenya and Italy have signed a Letter of Intent aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation in preventing and combating crime, marking a significant step in expanding security ties between the two countries.
The agreement, signed between Kenya’s Ministry of Interior and National Administration and Italy’s Ministry of the Interior, establishes a framework for closer collaboration between the two governments and their respective law enforcement agencies in addressing both domestic and transnational criminal activities.
Framework to Boost Security Cooperation
The new arrangement is designed to improve coordination in tackling organised crime while enhancing information sharing, joint planning, and cooperation between Kenyan and Italian security agencies.
Speaking during the signing ceremony, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen welcomed Italy’s comprehensive approach to security cooperation.
“Kenya welcomes Italy’s integrated approach that recognises the close link between development, migration management and security,” Murkomen said.
Under the agreement, both countries will appoint official contact points to facilitate strategic collaboration and coordinate bilateral as well as multilateral security initiatives.
Foundation for Broader Security Partnership
The Letter of Intent is expected to pave the way for negotiations on a more comprehensive security cooperation agreement between Kenya and Italy.
Murkomen noted that Kenya would also benefit from Italy’s experience in public security coordination and modern policing, lessons that could help strengthen the country’s security institutions.
He said recent engagements between the two countries had already provided valuable insights that would shape future collaboration in policing and crime prevention.
Support for Nairobi Metropolitan Police Unit
Murkomen linked the agreement to Kenya’s ongoing security reforms, including the establishment of the Nairobi Metropolitan Police Unit, which is expected to enhance security within the capital and surrounding areas.
“This milestone comes at a time when we are establishing the Nairobi Metropolitan Police Unit to enhance safety and security within the capital city and its environs,” he said.
The Cabinet Secretary added that Kenya would seek Italy’s support in strengthening the specialised unit once the broader security cooperation agreement is concluded.
“After we sign our security cooperation agreement, we will be coming to you to seek specific collaboration on this front,” Murkomen added.
Part of Kenya’s Security Modernisation Agenda
The government said the agreement forms part of Kenya’s wider strategy to modernise its security sector through stronger international partnerships, improved policing capabilities, and enhanced responses to emerging security threats.
The collaboration is also expected to strengthen efforts against transnational organised crime while promoting regional stability and public safety.
The signing ceremony was attended by Italian Ambassador to Kenya Dr. Vincenzo Del Monaco, Principal Secretaries Dr. Raymond Omollo (Internal Security) and Dr. Belio Kipsang (Immigration and Citizen Services), alongside senior government officials from both Kenya and Italy.
