UK Moves September Batuk Military Exercise Out of Kenya Over Defence Agreement Dispute

The United Kingdom has relocated a major military training exercise scheduled for September out of Kenya. The British Army Training Unit Kenya (Batuk) exercise involving 1,500 troops will now take place at an alternative location. The decision stems from an ongoing standoff over the Defence Cooperation Agreement between the two countries.

At the centre of the disagreement are proposed amendments to Articles 6(5) and 23 of the agreement. Parliament wants murder included among offences under Kenyan court jurisdiction and a corporate social responsibility component for Batuk’s engagement with local communities. The UK has not yet agreed to these changes.

The Kenya Defence Forces and British armed forces have maintained a long-standing partnership focused on training and cooperation. Batuk’s presence in Laikipia has generated economic activity but also drawn criticism over alleged human rights issues and environmental impacts. Previous inquiries highlighted concerns about conduct by some soldiers.

A UK Ministry of Defence spokesperson expressed regret over the move but emphasised the value of the broader Kenya-UK defence relationship. The ministry said only the September exercise is affected and that engagement with Kenya continues to resolve outstanding issues. Training currently underway remains unaffected.

Parliament has maintained its position. The National Assembly’s Defence Committee insists on the amendments before ratification. Belgut MP Nelson Koech, who chairs the committee, said both governments are actively engaging to address the matters.

The Defence Cooperation Agreement has faced delays in previous parliamentary cycles. Public participation and county government input raised issues around consultation, human rights, and benefits to host communities. The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights has called for meaningful inclusion of local voices.

Batuk’s operations in Laikipia have been the subject of multiple reports. Allegations include sexual abuse, environmental degradation, and disregard for court orders. These have complicated negotiations for a new agreement.

For Kenya, the partnership provides training opportunities for the Kenya Defence Forces and economic benefits to host areas. However, lawmakers argue that sovereignty and accountability must take precedence. The relocation of the exercise highlights how disputes over legal jurisdiction can affect practical cooperation.

The situation remains fluid. Both sides have expressed commitment to dialogue. Resolution could allow future exercises to resume in Kenya under mutually acceptable terms. In the meantime, the UK will seek alternative locations to maintain its training schedule.