Kenya, Italy sign security pact to strengthen fight against transnational crime

Kenya and Italy have signed a Letter of Intent aimed at strengthening cooperation in preventing and combating crime, marking a significant step towards deeper security collaboration between the two countries.

The agreement, signed on Thursday by Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen and Italy's Minister of the Interior Matteo Piantedosi, establishes a framework for enhanced collaboration between the two countries' interior ministries and police authorities in addressing crime, including transnational organised criminal activities.

According to a joint communiqué, the Letter of Intent is expected to pave the way for a broader bilateral agreement on security matters while reinforcing the growing partnership between Kenya and Italy in tackling emerging security threats.

The two governments noted that crime poses a significant threat to public order, safety and the well-being of citizens, underscoring the need for stronger international cooperation to effectively address increasingly complex criminal networks.

Under the agreement, Kenya and Italy will designate contact points to facilitate the planning and implementation of strategic cooperation initiatives at both bilateral and multilateral levels. The arrangement is expected to improve information sharing and coordination between the two countries' security agencies.

The two ministries also reaffirmed their commitment to deepening collaboration in support of public safety, regional stability and efforts to counter emerging and complex security threats.