Major General Paul Owuor Otieno, Commander of the Kenya Navy, along with a four-member delegation, visited Southern Naval Command (SNC), Kochi, from 30th September to 2nd October 2025, marking a significant milestone in growing India–Kenya naval cooperation. The delegation engaged in productive dialogue with Vice Admiral V Srinivas, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Naval Command, to explore new avenues for enhancing training engagement and maritime collaboration between the two navies.
Strategic Engagements and Initiatives
The Kenyan delegation was presented with an overview of the Indian Navy’s advanced training and operational frameworks, including demonstrations of simulator-based training and cutting-edge infrastructure at various schools within SNC. Major General Otieno commended the Indian Navy’s Indian Ocean Ship – Sagar (IOS Sagar) initiative, which is jointly crewed by personnel from nine Indian Ocean Region (IOR) nations, including Kenya, as a model for regional maritime synergy. The recent long-range training deployment of the First Training Squadron (1TS) to Mombasa was also recognized as a key development strengthening bilateral military ties.
Enhancing Cooperation and Capacity Building
Discussions at Headquarters Sea Training centered on operational sea training and prospects for deeper collaboration, while the delegation’s visit to INS Kabra showcased advanced naval assets. At INHS Sanjivani, Kochi’s naval hospital, the delegation was briefed on comprehensive multi-specialty medical facilities, underlining the broad scope of training and welfare initiatives offered by the Indian Navy.
Legacy of Partnership
Since 1990, the Indian Navy and Kenya Navy have actively collaborated through training, operational coordination, multilateral exercises, and bilateral exchanges. Major General Otieno’s visit reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to regional maritime security, capability enhancement, and greater interoperability through training and adoption of best practices.
Conclusion
Major General Otieno’s visit to SNC underscores the strengthening India–Kenya maritime partnership, shared goals for regional stability, and dedication to advancing operational excellence through mutual training, technology sharing, and multilateral engagement.
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Source: PIB
