Kenya has witnessed a remarkable rebound in reimbursements for its troops deployed in Somalia, with refunds soaring eleven times to Ksh958 million in the fiscal year ending June 2025.
This surge marks a significant recovery from the previous year’s historic low of Ksh86 million, signaling renewed international support for Kenya’s critical role in the African Union-led peacekeeping efforts in Somalia.
The funds, reimbursed mainly by the African Union (AU), the European Union (EU), and the United Nations (UN), help offset the substantial costs Kenya incurs in maintaining its military presence against the Al-Shabaab insurgency.
Over the years, Kenya has been a frontline state in the fight against terrorism, deploying thousands of soldiers since 2011 to stabilize Somalia and protect regional security.
While the Sh958 million refund is a welcome increase, it remains far below the billions Kenya received in earlier years, such as Sh6.98 billion in 2022-23 and a peak of Ksh8.9 billion in 2020-21.
The decline reflects shifting geopolitical priorities and donor fatigue, especially as the AU mission transitioned from AMISOM to the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (Aussom) in July 2025.
The transition to Aussom marks a new phase focused on supporting Somalia’s gradual assumption of security responsibilities. However, the mission’s future funding is uncertain, with the UN Security Council recently failing to activate a resolution that would have covered up to 75% of AU mission costs. The EU, the largest contributor since 2007, has also signaled reluctance to maintain previous funding levels.
For Kenya, these refunds are vital. They ease the financial burden on the national budget and ensure that troops receive their allowances, which currently stand at about $828 per soldier per month.
The government remains committed to sustaining its military presence, recognizing that a premature withdrawal could jeopardize regional stability given the persistent threat from Al-Shabaab.
As Kenya navigates this complex security landscape, the increased refunds provide a crucial lifeline, enabling the country to continue its peacekeeping mission with renewed vigor and resilience.
Source: Business Daily
Written By Ian Maleve
