His Excellence Mr. Maarten Brouwer, Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Kenya, and Brigadier General John LeBlanc, the Deputy Commanding General of SETAF-AF, today 7th March 2024 presided over the closing ceremony of Justified Accord 2024 Command Post Exercise (CPX) at Humanitarian Peace Support School in Embakasi Garrison, Nairobi.
At the closing ceremony, Ambassador Brouwer spoke on behalf of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, expressing his delight to be present at the conclusion of Exercise Justified Accord 2024. He extended his hopes that all participants had a memorable experience while enjoying the offerings of this beautiful country and that they would take home valuable lessons to their respective nations. He further added that Netherlands takes pride in our armed forces’ active involvement in supporting and assisting with this exercise.
“This is part of a long-standing commitment with our U.S counterparts and as ambassador of Netherlands to Kenya, I’m particularly proud that this exercise has taken place in Kenya. Over the last few years, the nation has faced significant security challenges and always willing and stepping up to provide regional solutions to meet these challenges” , Added Amb. Brouwer.
In his concluding statement, Brigadier General John LeBlanc, Deputy Commanding General of SETAF-AF, expressed his deep appreciation for Kenya’s contributions to the region. As a member of the National Guard, he recognized and respected the sacrifices made and the unwavering commitment to missions despite challenges. He also expressed pride in the decade-long partnership between the Massachusetts National Guard and Kenya, recognizing the vital role it plays in regional security in East Africa.
“I also want to acknowledge our department State colleagues so much of what they do in Africa in support of our supreme civilian counterparts. Whether at the state or in international organizations, like the AU or UN that is reflected in our exercise scenarios. Ultimately, our long-term success relies on their leadership. We’re especially grateful to have the opportunity to share perspectives with our partners on critical governance issues like the rule of law and incredibly proud of this training because it’s rooted in our common values. A special thanks to the KDF for hosting us for the use of this institution’s facilities and the spirit of collaboration throughout the exercise. The U.S. Army is proud to stand beside all of our partners here today. It would look forward to a future of long-lasting Partnerships.” Said Brigadier General LeBlanc.
On behalf of the Director, International Peace Support School Centre Brigadier Joyce Sitienei, HPSS Commandant Colonel John Rongoei appreciated all the participants who demonstrated the engineering of planning and executing that is given from all those dictionaries brought together on a common cause to solve common problems.
He also added that as an institution, they are happy for the first time gender was integrated into exercise JA24 through women in peace and security training, ensuring gender inclusivity is concerned, right from the planning stage. He further expressed his gratitude and special plan to the government of the United States for sponsoring this noble exercise.
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