Kenya and the United States have officially launched the expansion of the runway at Manda Bay in Lamu County, highlighting the growing security partnership between the two nations in combating terrorism and instability across the Horn of Africa.
The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau, who is visiting Kenya on an official diplomatic mission.
Kenyan officials say the expansion will enhance regional security, improve rapid response capabilities, and support joint operations against extremist groups. Located on Kenya’s northern coast near the Somali border, Manda Bay formally known as Cooperative Security Location Manda Bay has become a critical hub for counterterrorism operations.
The base, operated by the Kenya Defence Forces, also serves U.S. forces under a bilateral security arrangement focused on training, intelligence sharing, and regional stability. It gained international attention in January 2020 when al-Shabaab militants attacked the facility, killing three Americans and destroying several aircraft.
Since that incident, both governments have invested heavily in upgrading the base’s infrastructure and force protection. U.S. Africa Command notes that Manda Bay plays a central role in supporting counterterrorism operations in Somalia and the wider East Africa region, facilitating surveillance, logistics, and rapid deployment of forces.
The expanded runway is expected to accommodate a wider range of aircraft, improve operational safety, and strengthen humanitarian and emergency response capabilities. Officials also anticipate the upgrades will enhance maritime and air security along the Indian Ocean coastline, which has faced persistent threats from extremist networks.
Kenya has emerged as a key U.S. security partner in Africa. In 2024, Washington designated the country a major non-NATO ally, expanding defense cooperation and access to advanced training, technology, and financing. Manda Bay was upgraded to a full naval base in 2021, reflecting its strategic importance for counterterrorism, maritime security, and regional partnerships.
Beyond military operations, Kenyan and U.S. officials emphasize that the expanded facility will support humanitarian missions, disaster response, and regional peace initiatives, particularly as instability continues in neighboring Somalia and Sudan.
