India and Kenya have strengthened their maritime cooperation through joint training and professional exchanges in Mombasa. The Indian Coast Guard Ship (ICGS) Varaha recently undertook a port call at Mombasa as part of its overseas deployment, marking the third visit by an Indian naval or coast guard vessel to the East African coastal hub this year. The ship's visit aimed to advance bilateral maritime cooperation between New Delhi and Nairobi.
During its port call, the ICGS Varaha conducted joint training and professional exchanges with Kenya Coast Guard Service personnel. The training focused on maritime safety, law enforcement, and coastal security, aligning with India's vision of MAHASAGAR. A Maritime Search and Rescue tabletop exercise and training in Visit, Board, Search and Seizure (VBSS) and Nuclear, Biological, Chemical and Damage Control (NBCD) were also conducted.
The Indian Assistant High Commission in Mombasa posted on X that the second day of ICGS Varaha's Operational Turnaround at Mombasa focused on professional engagements with Kenya Coast Guard Service personnel. The ship also welcomed members of the local community and Indian diaspora onboard, strengthening bonds of friendship. A special yoga session was conducted onboard ICGS Varaha, featuring enthusiastic participation from the vessel's crew and the overseas Indian community.
Commanding Officer Comdt Ramanjeet Singh Rana, accompanied by the Defence Advisor stationed at the Indian High Commission in Nairobi, met with Bruno Shioso, Director General of the Kenya Coast Guard Service (KCGS). Discussions centered on strengthening ICGS-KCGS cooperation through training and joint exercises. They also met with Capt William Ruto, Managing Director of the Kenya Ports Authority, to discuss port security, maritime safety, and maritime connectivity.
The Indian High Commission in Nairobi stated that the frequent port calls by Indian ships to Kenya symbolize the growing bilateral maritime partnership as part of the BAHARI Joint vision and India's MAHASAGAR vision. The visits aim to strengthen maritime ties and bonds of friendship between the two nations. ICGS Varaha's port call is a significant step in enhancing cooperation between India and Kenya in the maritime domain.
The joint training and professional exchanges between India and Kenya Coast Guard Services demonstrate the commitment of both nations to ensuring safety and security at sea. The exercises conducted during the port call will enhance coordination and maritime law enforcement between the two countries. This cooperation is expected to have a positive impact on regional maritime security.
The deepening maritime cooperation between India and Kenya is a testament to the strong bilateral relations between the two nations. The visits and joint training exercises will continue to strengthen the bonds of friendship and cooperation between India and Kenya. Key aspects of their cooperation include enhancing maritime safety, promoting regional harmony, and facilitating bilateral trade.
Key points
- India and Kenya conduct joint maritime training to enhance safety and security at sea.
- The Indian Coast Guard Ship (ICGS) Varaha undertakes a port call at Mombasa as part of its overseas deployment.
- The cooperation between India and Kenya aims to promote regional maritime security and strengthen bilateral ties.
