As the global security environment becomes increasingly complex, nations are strengthening partnerships, modernising defence capabilities and embracing emerging technologies to build resilience against conventional and evolving threats.
Kenya is participating in the Seoul Defence Dialogue (SDD) 2026 in the Republic of Korea, represented by the Principal Secretary for Defence, Dr Patrick Mariru, alongside senior military delegates.
The three-day global security forum has brought together approximately 1,000 participants from 67 countries under the theme, “Toward a New Coexistence in the Age of Turbulence.” The dialogue provides a platform for defence and security leaders, policymakers and experts to examine contemporary security challenges and explore collaborative approaches to advancing international peace and stability.
During the opening ceremony, the Republic of Korea’s leadership underscored the need to adapt the global security architecture to an increasingly unpredictable strategic environment. President Lee Jae Myung called for enhanced international cooperation anchored on credible deterrence, shared resilience and adherence to established international norms.
Plenary discussions examined the evolving nature of security alliances and partnerships, with emphasis on strengthening bilateral, minilateral and multilateral frameworks. Participants explored practical approaches to cooperation, including role-sharing, institutionalised burden-sharing, joint capability development and enhanced interoperability among partner nations.
The dialogue also highlighted the need for contemporary security partnerships to extend beyond traditional deterrence. Greater cooperation in intelligence sharing, joint training and exercises, maritime security, and humanitarian assistance and disaster response emerged as important components of building collective resilience.
Defence innovation and industrial resilience featured prominently in the discussions. Participants examined approaches to developing robust defence-industrial ecosystems and secure supply chains through public-private partnerships, domestic production and greater integration of small and medium-sized enterprises.
Emerging technologies are equally reshaping the future security landscape. Discussions highlighted investment in artificial intelligence, cyber capabilities, space systems and unmanned platforms, alongside technology transfer and the development of indigenous defence capabilities.
For Kenya, participation in the Seoul Defence Dialogue provides an opportunity to engage with international partners, exchange perspectives on emerging security trends and draw lessons from evolving approaches to defence cooperation, innovation and resilience.
The forum also reinforces Kenya’s continued engagement in international security dialogue and its contribution to collaborative approaches to regional and global peace and security. Insights from the discussions offer valuable perspectives for strengthening national resilience, defence innovation, capability development and strategic partnerships, while positioning Kenya to respond effectively to an increasingly dynamic security environment.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Defence - Kenya.
