Why the US Congress Wants to Reconsider Kenya’s Non-NATO Ally Status

Senator Jim Risch, a Republican from Idaho, introduced the proposal as part of the US Senate’s 2026 Defense Authorization Bill. He raised alarm over Kenya’s recent military cooperation deals and diplomatic engagements with countries that challenge Washington’s global influence.

“Kenya’s deepening military and diplomatic ties with adversarial nations should trigger a closer examination of its MNNA status,” Risch stated in a public memo supporting the legislation.

Security Concerns and Extremism

Beyond geopolitical alignments, Risch expressed concern over Kenya’s handling of extremist threats, particularly the country’s effectiveness in addressing issues related to al-Shabaab and regional instability.

He called for the Director of National Intelligence (DNI) to deliver a comprehensive report assessing Kenya’s connections to extremist elements, its counterterrorism performance, and its commitment to regional peace.

What It Means for Kenya

If passed, the legislation would require the US intelligence community to submit an unclassified report within 180 days of enactment. The outcome could impact Kenya’s preferential access to US military aid, defense equipment, and joint training programs tied to its MNNA designation.

The US granted Kenya non-NATO ally status in May 2024 under the Biden administration, a move that underscored Nairobi’s strategic importance in East Africa. However, this status now faces its first serious review.

Kenya’s Growing Global Engagement

In recent months, President William Ruto’s administration has expanded its diplomatic and economic ties beyond traditional Western partners. This includes engagements with Iranian officials, new defense agreements with China, and dialogue with Russian diplomats.

While these moves may be aimed at diversifying foreign policy, they have also raised eyebrows in Washington, especially among lawmakers wary of losing influence in Africa.

What’s Next?

As the US Congress debates the 2026 defense bill, Kenya’s strategic partnerships will come under greater scrutiny. The report’s findings could shape the future of US-Kenya military cooperation and influence how Nairobi positions itself globally.

No official statement has been issued yet by the Kenyan government regarding Risch’s proposal.