Kenya hosts specialized training to counter terror financing

The training is part of a strategic initiative aimed at enhancing the efficiency of security and regulatory agencies in Islamic Military Counter Terrorism Coalition [IMCTC] member states.

Speaking during the launch of the training, General Officer Commanding (GOCC) CENTCOM John Nkoimo said the initiative aims to strengthen institutional capacities to counter financial crimes related to terrorism.

Nkoimo emphasized the importance of collective action in countering the growing threats of terrorism financing, noting that the course organized and supervised by IMCTC represents a practical step towards strengthening the capabilities of Kenyan institutions in this field.

“Countering terrorism financing is a collective commitment that can only be achieved through integrated institutional coordination and effective international cooperation,” he noted.

He stressed on the importance of the training course organized by IMCTC as a strategic investment in building skills, strengthening networks and empowering institutions against illicit financial flows that fuel terrorist groups.

The course that will involve 25 officers from different departments will enable them to understand the national and international legal frameworks related to countering terrorism financing and money laundering, further improving their skills in using modern techniques to analyze financial data and detect suspicious activities.

These skills will help Kenya to develop strong mechanisms for co-operation and information sharing among local and international entities.

The five-day training will address seven main themes, including: the legal framework; sources and means of terrorism financing; financial analysis and detection mechanisms; international and regional cooperation; prevention strategies, awareness and training programs, and promoting a culture of reporting suspicious activities.

The course comes as part of a series of training programs conducted by IMCTC in member states, Kenya included to support joint efforts to counter terrorism threats and cross-border crime, in line with international best practices and standards.