Implications of the Designation as a Us Major Non-NATO Ally on Kenya’s National Interests: Opportunities, Risks and Mitigations

Executive Summary

Kenya’s designation as a Major Non-NATO Ally(MNNA) of the US portends both opportunities  and risks to its national interests in areas of security, sovereignty, territorial integrity, global competitiveness, economic prosperity and sustainable
development. The opportunities include a revamped security architecture for Kenya’s land, air and maritime resources including equipment and technical assistance for police and defence forces; enhanced capacity to resolve and protect territorial interests and blue economy; boosted global image and trust; regional economic leadership through strategic trade and African Growth Opportunity Act (AGOA). The risks include enhanced threats of violent extremism, externally imported conflicts targeting US establishments, a decline in regional influence, increased arms race, interference in Kenya’s internal affairs; negative perception of Kenya as vassal state of the US; reduced Foreign Direct Investments (FDIs) from anti-US strategic development partners such as China and Russia; waning Pan-African stature of Kenya, and potential jeopardy to Kenya’s candidature at the African Union commission seat.