India and Kenya took a step toward deepening defence industrial cooperation with the conclusion of the third India-Kenya Defence Exhibition and Seminar in Nairobi on 19 January 2026.
The event coincided with a visit by a four-member Indian defence delegation led by Sanjeev Kumar, Secretary (Defence Production), Ministry of Defence, Government of India.
Jointly organised by the High Commission of India in Kenya and the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), with support from India’s Department of Defence Production, the exhibition reflects a shift in bilateral defence ties from traditional engagement toward industrial collaboration. Previous editions of the event were held in 2022 and 2024.
The exhibition and seminar were jointly inaugurated by Defence Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya, Sanjeev Kumar, and the High Commissioner of India to Kenya.
A total of 21 Indian defence companies from both the public and private sectors participated, showcasing a range of defence platforms, systems, and manufacturing capabilities.
The companies participated under the aegis of the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), highlighting India’s “Make in India” initiative and its export-ready defence products.
On the sidelines of the event, Sanjeev Kumar held discussions with senior Kenyan defence officials, including Patrick Mariru, Principal Secretary (Defence), and Lt Gen John Omenda, Vice Chief of Defence Forces.
Talks focused on strengthening defence industrial cooperation, capacity building, training, sustainment partnerships, and maintenance and logistics support.
The Indian delegation also visited Kenya Shipyard Limited (KSL) in Mtongwe, where discussions focused on the implementation of the Memorandum of Understanding signed between Goa Shipyard Limited and KSL in August 2023.
The MoU aims to enhance cooperation in shipbuilding, repair, and sustainment, with potential implications for Kenya’s maritime security and industrial capacity.
The visit highlighted India’s growing role as a defence manufacturing partner and technology provider, particularly for African nations seeking alternative suppliers of defence equipment.
For Kenya, the engagement aligns with efforts to strengthen domestic capabilities while expanding international partnerships.
India and Kenya share long-standing diplomatic relations, with defence cooperation emerging as a key component of the bilateral partnership.
The visit reinforced momentum in India-Kenya defence engagement and opened avenues for deeper industrial collaboration.