#regionalsecurity

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Kenya has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening regional security efforts through closer collaboration with neighboring countries to counter emerging threats such as terrorism and organized crime.

During a regional meeting held on Tuesday with representatives from over 20 nations, James Keter, the Director General of the Kenya Nuclear Regulatory Authority (KNRA), emphasized the importance of adapting security strategies to address technological advancements and the cross-border nature of criminal activities.

Keter highlighted the growing concerns over porous borders, which facilitate the illicit trafficking of radiological and nuclear materials, urging stakeholders to "work tirelessly" to safeguard public health, property, and the environment.

The two-day conference is part of a broader initiative funded by the European Union, aimed at enhancing regional security through the establishment of Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) Centers of Excellence across Africa.

At the forum, Keter stressed that combating organized crime cannot be done in isolation, pointing out that Kenya is actively working with international partners to boost regional biosafety and biosecurity measures. He further noted, "Our efforts must transcend national borders to address global and regional threats, including enhancing security protocols for the safe transport and management of hazardous materials."

Marian De Bruijn, Programme Manager at the United Nations Interregional Crime and Justice Research Institute (UNICRI), called for countries to explore diverse funding sources, especially as traditional donors reduce their support. She emphasized the importance of engaging the private sector in these efforts, urging a shift towards collaborations that will ensure long-term safety and security.

KNRA serves as the EU-CBRN Regional Secretariat for the Eastern and Central African Centers of Excellence, a group comprising 12 member states. Keter urged members to build on the successes of the EU-funded program, which is celebrating its 15th anniversary this year, to further deepen partnerships and reinforce commitments to regional security.

The EU-CBRN Centre of Excellence consists of three regional secretariats across Africa, with one based in Kenya for Eastern and Central Africa, while North Africa and the Sahel is covered by Algeria, and Morocco handles the African Atlantic Façade region.

Throughout the meeting, discussions centered on the role of emerging technologies like AI and machine learning in addressing CBRN threats. Speakers agreed that countries have a responsibility to develop robust mechanisms for responding to security challenges, with each incident serving as an opportunity to refine strategies for better preparedness and decision-making.

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