Eastern Africa Standby Force - EASF

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Eastern Africa Standby Force - EASF The Eastern Africa Standby Force is a regional organization whose mandate is to enhance peace and security in the Eastern Africa region.

It is one of the five regional multidimensional Forces of the African Standby Force (ASF) consisting of Military, Police and Civilian components. EASF was established as a regional mechanism to provide capability for rapid deployment of forces to carry out preventive deployment, rapid intervention, peace support/stability operations and peace enforcement. Vision
To contribute to regional and continental peace, security, stability and enhance regional integration. Mission
To maintain and sustain a fully operational and multidimensional integrated standby force ready to respond to emerging crises. The need for a common African Defence and Security mechanism was a key feature of the Inaugural Summit of the African Union (AU), held in Durban, South Africa, in July 2002. The African leaders felt compelled to develop African solutions that would respond to the multifaceted challenges threatening stability, security and cooperation on the continent. Consequently, through the Protocol Relating to the Establishment of the Peace and Security Council of the African Union (PSC), the African Standby Force (ASF) was established as part of the African Peace and Security Architecture (APSA). The Peace and Security Council Protocol (PSCP) covers a comprehensive agenda for peace and security. This includes conflict prevention, early warning and preventive diplomacy, peace-building, intervention and humanitarian action, and disaster management. The other components of APSA set up by the PSC Protocol include the Continental Early Warning System; the Panel of the Wise; and the Peace Fund. The ASF comprises multi-national and multi-disciplinary Civilian, Police and Military components held on standby in their countries of origin in the five regions of the African Union. These regions are:

Eastern Africa Standby Force (EASF)
Northern Standby Brigade (NARC)
Western Africa Standby Brigade (ECOWAS)
Central African Standby Brigade (ECCAS)
Southern Africa Standby Brigade (SADC)

These components stay on standby for rapid deployment at appropriate notice as provided for in the six peace support operations scenarios of the ASF. The establishment of EASF follows the decision of the Summit of the African Union held in July 2004 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia to create the Eastern Africa Standby Brigade (EASBRIG). The MOU, signed in April 2005 (and as amended in January 2011) expressly establishes the EASF as a constituent organization of the African Standby Force (ASF). In March 2007, the Council of Ministers of Defence and Security established a Coordination Mechanism called EASFCOM (formerly EASBRICOM). The establishment is based on past experiences of conflicts in Africa, such as the Rwanda Genocide, war in Sudan, war in Somalia among others. The Eastern Africa region continues to be faced with challenges of conflict and internal problems impacting on peace and security. Membership
The Eastern Africa Region, represented by the Eastern Africa Standby Force (EASF) , is one of five regions of the African Peace and Security Architecture and is, as such, developing the standby force, as a component of the ASF. Currently, the EASF draws its membership from 10 active Member States including Burundi, Comoros, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda, Seychelles, Somalia, Sudan and Uganda, which are signatories to the Memorandum of Understanding on the Establishment of the Eastern Africa Standby Force (MOU). The Republic of South Sudan enjoys the status of observer in EASF since April 2013 and is expected to become a full member any time soon.

EASF, Hekima University college Explore Partnership to Strengthen Electoral Peace and Regional StabilityNairobi, October...
22/10/2026

EASF, Hekima University college Explore Partnership to Strengthen Electoral Peace and Regional Stability

Nairobi, October 22, 2026- The Eastern Africa Standby Force (EASF) and Hekima University college have held a high-level strategic engagement to explore ways to strengthen regional peace, stability and democratic resilience through preventive diplomacy, with a focus on preventing election-related conflicts across Eastern Africa.

A key focus of the discussions was Hakima University’s initiative, “Investing in Peace Before, During, and After Elections,” which aims to prevent electoral violence, address potential sources of conflict and support peaceful political transitions.

EASF welcomed the initiative and expressed support for collaborative approaches that promote early engagement and conflict prevention throughout electoral cycles. Both institutions emphasized the importance of electoral integrity and non-violence in safeguarding regional stability.

The discussions also explored opportunities for broader cooperation between EASF’s regional peace and security mandate and Hakima University’s developing role in peace research.

The proposed partnership would seek to combine EASF’s operational experience in conflict prevention and rapid deployment with the university’s academic research and evidence-based analysis. The collaboration is intended to strengthen the link between research, policy development and practical peacebuilding initiatives.

Both institutions reaffirmed their commitment to promoting sustainable peace, strengthening institutional resilience and fostering peaceful coexistence across Eastern Africa.

The engagement reflects a shared interest in preventive diplomacy and coordinated efforts to address emerging security challenges before they escalate into wider conflicts. However, further details on the proposed partnership, including specific activities and implementation timelines, were not provided in the announcement.

HAPPY MASHUJAA DAY! Today, we honour the courage, sacrifice, and patriotism of Kenya’s heroes and heroines who have shap...
20/10/2026

HAPPY MASHUJAA DAY!

Today, we honour the courage, sacrifice, and patriotism of Kenya’s heroes and heroines who have shaped our nation.

EASF celebrates their legacy and reaffirms its commitment to peace, security, and stability across Eastern Africa.

Happy Mashujaa Day, Kenya! 🇰🇪

EASF Opens Logistics Map Exercise in Rwanda to Strengthen Regional Operational ReadinessGAKO, Rwanda, 19 October 2026 – ...
19/10/2026

EASF Opens Logistics Map Exercise in Rwanda to Strengthen Regional Operational Readiness

GAKO, Rwanda, 19 October 2026 – The Eastern Africa Standby Force (EASF) has officially opened a two-week Logistics Map Exercise (LOG MAPEX) at the Rwanda Military Academy in Gako, Rwanda, aimed at strengthening regional preparedness for peace support operations, humanitarian assistance and disaster response.

The exercise, running from 19 to 30 October 2026, brings together military, police and civilian personnel from EASF Member States, alongside regional partners and representatives of participating institutions, to enhance logistical planning, coordination and operational interoperability.

The Chief of Defence Staff of the Rwanda Defence Force, General Mubarakh Muganga, officially opened the exercise, reaffirming Rwanda’s commitment to regional cooperation and collective efforts to promote peace, security and stability.

General Muganga emphasised that effective logistics is fundamental to operational success, highlighting the importance of timely transportation, equipment, supplies, medical support and other essential resources in deploying and sustaining forces. He urged participants to identify capability gaps, challenge existing assumptions and develop practical recommendations to improve EASF’s operational readiness.

In his opening remarks, EASF Director Brigadier General Ronald Rwivanga underscored the strategic importance of logistics in ensuring that forces can deploy promptly, arrive with the required capabilities and sustain operations throughout their mandates.

Under the theme, “Project, Deploy and Sustain: Enhancing EASF’s Preparedness in Peace Support Operations and Humanitarian Assistance and Natural Disaster Support Operations,” the exercise will assess logistical capabilities, examine deployment options and strengthen coordination among Member States and relevant stakeholders.

The High Commissioner of Kenya to Rwanda, speaking on behalf of the Diplomatic Corps, reaffirmed diplomatic support for initiatives that advance regional integration, interoperability and collective security.

The exercise is expected to generate actionable recommendations to address logistical shortcomings, improve planning processes and strengthen EASF’s capacity to respond effectively to emerging regional security challenges and humanitarian emergencies.

EASF Concludes Child Protection Training of Trainers Course in KenyaNaivasha, Kenya, 16 October 2026 - The Eastern Afric...
19/10/2026

EASF Concludes Child Protection Training of Trainers Course in Kenya

Naivasha, Kenya, 16 October 2026 - The Eastern Africa Standby Force (EASF) has concluded a two-week Child Protection Training of Trainers Course in Naivasha, Kenya, equipping 22 police and civilian officers from eight Member States with skills to strengthen child protection in peace support operations.

The closing ceremony was presided over by the Guest of Honour, Mohammed Wako, CP, representing the Kenya National Police Service, and attended by EASF representatives, facilitators, partner organisations and course participants.

Held from 5 to 16 October, the training covered child protection in armed conflict, the recruitment and use of children by armed groups, sexual violence against children, child detention, and relevant legal and normative frameworks. Participants also developed practical competencies in adult learning, lesson planning, training methodologies and instructional delivery.

The programme combined expert-led sessions with practical teaching exercises, enabling participants to demonstrate their skills through individual and group presentations and prepare to deliver similar training within their respective institutions.

Speaking on behalf of the EASF Director, the Head of Police Component, Col. Pol. Melance Ntakiyiruta, emphasized the importance of establishing a sustainable pool of regional trainers to strengthen child protection capacity across Member States. He urged participants to cascade the knowledge gained and integrate child protection into pre-deployment training and mission preparation.

EASF acknowledged Denmark and Norway for funding the course and providing training expertise, as well as the Kenya National Police Service, facilitators, subject matter experts and organizing team for their contributions.

The course reinforces EASF’s commitment to regional cooperation, professional capacity development and operational readiness. Through the newly trained instructors, the Force aims to expand child protection training across Member States and strengthen the protection of children in future peace support operations.

EASF Bids Farewell to Outgoing Staff and Welcomes New MembersNairobi, Kenya, 15 October 2026 – The Eastern Africa Standb...
16/10/2026

EASF Bids Farewell to Outgoing Staff and Welcomes New Members

Nairobi, Kenya, 15 October 2026 – The Eastern Africa Standby Force (EASF) Secretariat in Nairobi hosted a ceremony to bid farewell to outgoing staff members and welcome newly appointed personnel, celebrating their contributions and reaffirming the organization’s commitment to regional peace and security.

The ceremony was presided over by Mr. Souef Kamalidini, Head of Finance and Administration at EASF, on behalf of the Director.

In his remarks, Mr. Kamalidini expressed sincere appreciation to the outgoing staff for their dedication, collaboration and valuable contributions during their service to the organization. He acknowledged their role in advancing EASF’s objectives and encouraged them to remain ambassadors of the organization as they embark on new professional journeys.

He also extended a warm welcome to the incoming staff, underscoring the importance of teamwork, commitment and a shared vision in achieving the organization’s mandate.

Mr. Kamalidini noted that the achievements recorded over the past year demonstrate EASF’s capacity to deliver on its objectives through collective effort, cooperation and a common sense of purpose. He emphasized that continued collaboration among staff members remains essential to strengthening the organization’s effectiveness and advancing its mission.

Reaffirming EASF’s commitment to promoting peace and security across the Eastern Africa region, he called on all staff to maintain their dedication to the organization’s goals and work together towards a more stable region.

EASF Concludes Rostering and Verification Database Workshop in NairobiNAIROBI, Kenya, 14 October 2026 – The Eastern Afri...
14/10/2026

EASF Concludes Rostering and Verification Database Workshop in Nairobi

NAIROBI, Kenya, 14 October 2026 – The Eastern Africa Standby Force (EASF) has concluded a three-day Rostering and Verification Database Workshop in Nairobi, aimed at strengthening civilian readiness, regional cooperation and deployment preparedness for peace support operations.

Held from 12 to 14 October at Dusit Princess Residence Hotel, the workshop brought together National Focal Points (NFPs) from Member States, African Union (AU) representatives, EASF leadership and partners to enhance the accuracy, reliability and credibility of the African Standby Capacity (ASC) roster.

EASF Head of the Civilian Component, Ms. Monalisa Kakono, emphasized that effective peace support operations depend not only on well-trained personnel but also on accurate, up-to-date and verified information to facilitate timely deployment.

She described the ASC database as a strategic operational tool for identifying qualified civilian experts for conflict prevention, mediation, peacebuilding, humanitarian assistance and post-conflict reconstruction.

Kakono underscored the critical role of National Focal Points in identifying qualified candidates, supporting registration, updating profiles and ensuring the roster remains accurate and operational.

Mr. Eustace Chiwombe, Head of Training, Evaluation and Capability Development at the African Union Commission, highlighted the importance of harmonizing regional rostering processes with continental policies and frameworks to support a standardized African Standby Capacity.

Denmark’s Senior Adviser and IACS Coordinator, Mr. Kenneth Goren Albert, called for stronger coordination among Member States, EASF and the AU, noting that civilian rosters should reflect the multidimensional and integrated nature of peace support operations.

Participants exchanged experiences, identified challenges and developed recommendations to improve roster management, verification and national-level coordination.

The workshop concluded with a renewed commitment to strengthening civilian capacity and ensuring the availability of qualified experts for timely deployment in support of peace and security across Africa.

The Eastern Africa Standby Force (EASF) Director Brigadier General Ronald Rwivanga, extends its warmest congratulations ...
14/10/2026

The Eastern Africa Standby Force (EASF) Director Brigadier General Ronald Rwivanga, extends its warmest congratulations to Major General Ibrahim Mohamed Mohamud, Chief of Defence Forces of the Somali National Armed Forces (SNAF), on his promotion to the rank of Major General.

This promotion reflects his leadership, dedication, and continued service to the Federal Republic of Somalia. EASF commends his commitment to strengthening national defence, enhancing regional security cooperation, and promoting peace and stability across the Eastern Africa region.

EASF wishes Major General Ibrahim Mohamed Mohamud continued success in his leadership role and in the discharge of his important responsibilities.

Congratulations on this significant professional achievement.

EASF Participates in African Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction and ResilienceMaputo, Mozambique -13 October 2026 - T...
13/10/2026

EASF Participates in African Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction and Resilience

Maputo, Mozambique -13 October 2026 - The Eastern Africa Standby Force (EASF) has joined African Union (AU) Member States, regional institutions, development partners and other stakeholders in Maputo, Mozambique, for the International Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction and Resilience in Africa, taking place from 13 to 15 October 2026.

Held under the theme “Scaling Proactive Governance and Strategic Investment for Disaster Risk Reduction and a Resilient Africa,” the conference aims to strengthen disaster risk governance, mobilise investment in resilience, enhance early warning systems and promote risk-informed development planning.

The opening ceremony coincided with the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction, observed annually on 13 October. This year’s theme, “Resilience Starts at Home,” highlights the importance of community preparedness in reducing disaster risks and protecting lives and livelihoods.

Officially opened by H.E. Daniel Francisco Chapo, President of the Republic of Mozambique and African Union Champion for Disaster Risk Management, the conference called for coordinated action, increased investment and a shift from reactive disaster response towards proactive risk reduction.

Drawing on Mozambique’s experience with droughts, floods and tropical cyclones, President Chapo highlighted the role of more than 1,500 disaster management committees in alerting communities, strengthening preparedness and saving lives.

The conference builds on continental commitments, including the 2024 Windhoek Declaration, which calls for stronger disaster risk governance, improved early warning systems and integration of risk reduction into development planning.

For EASF, participation provides an opportunity to engage regional and continental partners on the implications of disasters for human security, community resilience and regional stability. Disasters can disrupt livelihoods, displace populations and place additional pressure on national and regional response capacities.

Deliberations are expected to advance practical actions, sustainable financing and partnerships for disaster resilience. EASF’s participation underscores the importance of regional cooperation, coordinated preparedness and effective early warning in building a safer, more resilient Africa.

EASF Opens Rostering and Verification Database Workshop in NairobiNAIROBI, Kenya, 12 October 2026 – The Eastern Africa S...
12/10/2026

EASF Opens Rostering and Verification Database Workshop in Nairobi

NAIROBI, Kenya, 12 October 2026 – The Eastern Africa Standby Force (EASF) has opened a three-day Rostering and Verification Database Workshop in Nairobi to strengthen civilian readiness, regional cooperation and deployment preparedness for peace support operations.

The workshop, taking place from 12 to 14 October at the Dusit Princess Residence Hotel, brings together National Focal Points (NFPs) from Member States, African Union representatives, EASF leadership and partners to improve the accuracy and credibility of the African Standby Capacity (ASC) roster.

Brigadier General Stephen Kashure, EASF Joint Chief of Staff, called for stronger coordination among the three components and practical recommendations that advance African solutions to African challenges. He officially opened the workshop.

Mr. Eustace Chiwombe, Head of Training, Evaluation and Capability Development at the African Union Commission, stressed the growing importance of civilian expertise in addressing the political and governance dimensions of conflicts.

In her opening remarks, Ms. Monalisa Kakono, Head of the EASF Civilian Component, welcomed participants and commended Member States, the African Union and partners for their continued commitment to regional peace and security.
She emphasized the vital role of civilian experts in governance, human rights, humanitarian assistance, child protection and peacebuilding, noting that their contribution is essential to the multidimensional nature of the African Standby Force (ASF).
“This is not a workshop where EASF speaks and you listen. This is a workshop where we co-create,” she said, encouraging National Focal Points to share experiences, challenges and recommendations to make the roster more current, credible and deployment-ready.

Denmark’s Senior Adviser and IACS Coordinator, Mr. Kenneth Goren Albert, highlighted the importance of integrating civilian, police and military capabilities to address conflict prevention, humanitarian emergencies and natural disasters.

Discussions will cover the EASF mandate, the African Peace and Security Architecture, roster eligibility, recruitment and verification procedures, and the responsibilities of National Focal Points. Participants will also identify gaps and share best practices to improve the ASC database and civilian deployment readiness.

Address

P. O Box 1444
Nairobi
00502

Opening Hours

Monday 08:30 - 17:00
Tuesday 08:30 - 17:00
Wednesday 08:30 - 17:00
Thursday 08:30 - 17:00
Friday 08:30 - 17:00

Telephone

+254203884720

Website

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