The United States has initiated a formal process to review Kenya’s status as a Major Non-NATO Ally, granted in June 2024, amid concerns over the East African nation’s deepening economic links with China and alleged involvement with armed groups.
According to an amendment submitted by Senator James Risch in the Congressional Record, the Secretary of State—working alongside the Pentagon, Treasury, and the Director of National Intelligence—must begin the review within 90 days of the Act’s enactment. A classified report to Congress is due within 180 days, assessing Kenya’s cooperation in counterterrorism, regional peacekeeping, and its partnerships with countries like China, Russia, and Iran.
The probe will also investigate Kenya’s trade under Beijing’s Belt and Road Initiative, bilateral debt, and alleged links with violent extremist groups such as Somalia’s al-Shabaab and Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces. U.S. officials will further examine whether American security assistance has been misused in incidents involving civilian harm.
President William Ruto has defended closer economic ties with China, citing Beijing’s recent removal of tariffs on key Kenyan exports such as tea, coffee, and avocados. Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, however, welcomed the U.S. review, pointing to ongoing concerns over police brutality and human rights abuses.
The review could lead to the withdrawal of Kenya’s strategic designation, a move that would mark a significant shift in U.S.-Kenya relations.