EASTERN AFRICA STANDBY FORCE CONVENES 'FRIENDS OF EASF' MEETING IN NAIROBI

Nairobi, 1 October 2026 - The Eastern Africa Standby Force (EASF) convened the Friends of EASF Meeting in Nairobi, bringing together senior military leadership, Member States, development partners and diplomatic representatives to review progress and strengthen regional cooperation on peace and security.

The meeting provided a platform for consultation, coordination and partnership on EASF’s operational and strategic priorities. Discussions focused on the Force’s mandate, strategic direction and regional relevance, the background and role of the Friends of EASF, and their contribution to advancing EASF’s strategic priorities and regional peace and security mandate.

Participants also reviewed EASF’s strategic priorities and areas of focus for 2027–2030, with interactive discussions aimed at strengthening coordination and support among stakeholders.

EASF Director, Brigadier General Ronald Rwivanga, expressed appreciation for the continued commitment of Member States, Friends and development partners, describing the gathering as a demonstration of confidence in EASF as an important regional mechanism within the African Peace and Security Architecture.

He noted that Eastern Africa continues to face complex and interconnected security challenges, including armed conflicts, terrorism and violent extremism, transnational organised crime, maritime security concerns, climate-related security risks and humanitarian crises. He emphasised that these challenges require cooperation, coordination, information sharing and collective action.

Friends of EASF Chairperson, Colonel Lasse Sand, commended progress in regional cooperation and highlighted Denmark’s decade-long support to the Integrated Mission Planning Concept. He also noted challenges arising from shifting global priorities and reduced funding, while identifying opportunities to strengthen humanitarian response and multi-domain capabilities.