British army to continue training in Nanyuki if new deal goes through

National Assembly Defence Committee Chair Ndung’u Gethenji is optimistic that an agreement between Kenya and the UK will be reached to allow the British army to continue training in Nanyuki, Laikipia County.

Speaking in his Tetu Constituency, Gethenji said the agreement is awaiting the ratification by members of the National Assembly.

He noted that as a committee they are ready to push for the ratification of the agreement.

“Various views have been expressed and concerns raised. All these views and concerns will be presented before the committee and incorporated in our report to be presented to the House,” he said, adding that members of Parliament will have an opportunity to express their opinion on the agreement.

Under the new agreement the British Military will be required to give Kenya a year’s notice before holding exercises.

Further, nine months before the soldiers arrive the British military must furnish Kenya with details on number of personel, number and type of weapons and ammunition, explosives, vehicles and other equipment to be used.

This comes amid division between MP’s mostly drawn from the larger Meru region on whether the agreement should be ratified.

The MP’s are opposing the agreement as way of revenge after the UK government banned Miraa business in their country.