Global Security Watch—Kenya

Book excerpt: An original study on the strategic dimensions of Kenya encompasses in-depth examinations of the Kenya Armed Forces, political and military relations with key neighboring countries, and Kenya's crucial strategic relationship with the United States. Kenya plays a key role in the conflicts between the Western and Islamic worlds, making a grasp of its politics, international relations, military services, and security status an important study. Global Security Watch—Kenya provides a thorough introduction to the security issues facing the modern-day nation, offering policymakers, researchers, and general readers a window into this globally important, sub-Saharan country. This expert analysis is the first to examine the strategic dimensions of Kenya and the political and military circumstances that have shaped the country. Following an overview of Kenya's history, geography, and politics, the book explores the development of the Kenya Armed Forces; Kenya's critical relations and security issues in Greater East Africa, particularly with Tanzania, Uganda, and Somalia; and the country's strategic relations with the United States. Drawing on objective historical and contemporary research, interviews with influential figures, and his own first-hand experiences, the author underscores Kenya's enduring strategic importance and offers recommendations on policy decisions.