Kenya has risen in the latest military rankings, securing the 11th position in Africa and ranking 83rd globally, according to an annual assessment by Global Firepower.
The report indicates that 10 African nations have stronger military capabilities than Kenya. Egypt leads the continent as the most powerful military, followed by Algeria, Nigeria, South Africa, and Ethiopia. Completing the top 10 are Angola, Morocco, DR Congo, Sudan, and Libya.
Globally, Kenya has made notable progress, climbing to 83rd in terms of military strength. This improvement comes as the country continues to invest in its armed forces, including the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF).
Despite South Africa making the top 10 in Africa, its decline in air and naval power has seen the nation slip in the continental rankings.
Egypt’s position at the top is attributed to its significant investment in military spending to counter terrorism and ensure regional stability. With over 400,000 active personnel, Egypt boasts a formidable military equipped with modern fighter jets, advanced naval systems, and missile capabilities.
President William Ruto has expressed his administration’s commitment to enhancing Kenya’s military strength, particularly in naval capabilities. Speaking during the Kenya Navy’s 60th anniversary at the Kenya Navy Base in Mtongwe, Mombasa, Ruto outlined plans to modernize the navy’s fleet and invest in advanced technologies.
“Our singular focus will be on maintaining a high state of readiness to ensure that we respond swiftly and effectively to an increasingly dynamic security environment,” the President stated.
The government’s strategy also includes strengthening the skills and operational capacity of naval personnel, a move aimed at positioning Kenya among the top 10 strongest militaries in Africa in the coming years.
The Global Firepower rankings assess military strength based on factors such as financial capacity, logistical resources, manpower, and strategic positioning. A nation’s armed forces size remains a key determinant of its military strength.
On the lower end of the rankings, countries like Benin, Central African Republic, Somalia, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Gabon, Senegal, and Burkina Faso were identified as having the weakest militaries in Africa.
As Kenya continues to enhance its military capabilities, its improved ranking underscores the nation’s growing commitment to securing its borders and playing a significant role in regional security.
