The friendship between Kenya and China is critical, and has been built on mutual respect, trust, and ever-deepening understanding between the Kenyan people and the militaries of the respective countries.
According to the Kenya Army Commander Lt General David Ketter, all parties must strive to preserve this friendship that has been nurtured over decades.
Speaking during the commemoration of the 98th Anniversary of the People’s Liberation Army (the military of the People’s Republic of China) at the Chinese Embassy in Nairobi on Friday, July 25, Lt General Ketter acknowledged that the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) has greatly benefited from the goodwill and generous support extended by the PLA In various fields.
“The People’s Liberation Army has, over the years, distinguished itself through remarkable transformation, from humble beginnings to becoming a modern, professional force known for its discipline, innovation and commitment to the service of its nation and its people,” he said. “This is a journey worthy of admiration, and it is one that inspires many armed forces across the globe, including our own.”
KDF troops have had the privilege of participating in diverse training programmes, staff courses, seminars and study visits hosted by the PLA and Chinese institutions. These opportunities, Lt General Ketter noted, had broadened Kenya’s strategic perspective, strengthened capacity, and exposed KDF personnel to new ideas and technologies.
“Beyond professional training, our cooperation has also encouraged cultural exchanges, allowing our soldiers to experience first-hand the rich history, heritage, and traditions of the Chinese people. Similarly, our Chinese friends have come to learn about Kenya’s proud military history, our diversity, and our unwavering commitment to peace and stability both within our borders and in the region.”
Over the years, KDF and PLA troops have also shared experiences in areas such as disaster response, peace support operations, counterterrorism, and capacity building. These lessons, he said, had strengthened Kenya’s ability to adapt and respond to emerging security challenges with confidence and competence.
“As we honour the PLA’s remarkable legacy, let us equally reaffirm our commitment to the enduring friendship that binds the Kenya Defence Forces and the People’s Liberation Army. It is my firm belief that through continued engagement, mutual learning, and goodwill, our cooperation will grow from strength to strength, empowering us to stand ready for the complex demands of our time,” Lt General Ketter emphasised.
Lt General Ketter was representing the Chief of Defence Forces General Charles Kahariri in the commemoration, extending warmest congratulations to the officers, men, and women of the PLA on the auspicious 98th anniversary. “We celebrate your achievements, your sacrifices, and your steadfast dedication to your country and its people.”
He added: “May this special occasion renew our collective resolve to continue building bridges of friendship and understanding, not only for the benefit of our militaries but also for the peace, stability, and prosperity of our nations and the wider global community.”
The People’s Liberation Army (PLA)
The PLA was born 98 years ago amid the Chinese nation’s pursuit of national independence and people’s liberation. Over the years, China and Chinese nation have undergone unprecedented historical transformations, achieving a remarkable leap from standing up, to becoming prosperous, and growing strong.
The People’s Liberation Army has always been a heroic force that the Chinese people can fully trust. It has the confidence and capability to safeguard national sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity. It also has the confidence and capability to provide strategic support for realizing the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation and to make greater contributions to world peace and development.
This year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. 80 years ago, after 14 years of bloody and arduous struggle, the Chinese people achieved a monumental victory in their resistance against Japanese aggression and declared the complete triumph of the World Anti-Fascist War.
Eighty years ago, the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War led to the founding of the United Nations, which laid an important foundation for the post-war international order and ushered a new era of peace and development.
