Naval visits and exercises play a crucial role in fostering cooperation and strengthening ties between nations. In a significant move towards enhancing bilateral relations, INS Sunayna, an Indian naval ship, visited Mombasa, Kenya from 20th to 23rd June 2023. The visit aimed to strengthen maritime ties and promote collaboration between the two countries, focusing on the theme of the Ocean Ring of Yoga.
INS Sunayna’s Arrival and Reception
Warm Welcome from the High Commission of India
Upon its arrival in Mombasa, INS Sunayna was received by representatives from the High Commission of India. The warm welcome highlighted the importance attached to the visit and underscored the shared commitment to strengthen bilateral relations between India and Kenya.
Meeting with Deputy Commander of Kenya Navy, Brigadier Y S Abdi
The Commanding Officer of INS Sunayna had the opportunity to meet with Brigadier Y S Abdi, Deputy Commander of Kenya Navy. During the meeting, the significance of Yoga in bringing the world together was emphasized, underscoring the shared cultural values and the potential for cooperation between the two navies.
Joint Yoga Session and International Day of Yoga
On 21st June 2023, in commemoration of the International Day of Yoga, INS Sunayna hosted a collaborative Yoga session onboard the ship. The session witnessed active participation from Indian Navy personnel and Kenyan Defence Forces, highlighting the importance of physical and mental well-being through the practice of Yoga. This event further strengthened the cultural ties and camaraderie between the two nations.
Maritime Partnership Exercise and HADR Capsule
A Maritime Partnership Exercise was conducted between the Indian Navy and Kenya Navy. During the harbor phase, both navies conducted various drills and exercises, including firefighting and damage control, boarding exercises, asymmetric threat simulations, and Visit, Board, Search, and Seizure (VBSS) operations. These exercises aimed to enhance operational coordination and promote mutual understanding between the naval forces of India and Kenya. Additionally, a Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) capsule was conducted onboard INS Sunayna, providing valuable training and knowledge sharing to the Kenya Navy personnel.
Reception in Honor of General Francis Ogolla
A reception was hosted onboard INS Sunayna to honor General Francis Ogolla, Chief of Defence Forces of the Kenyan Defence Forces. Vice Admiral Sanjay Mahindru, Deputy Chief of the Naval Staff, along with HE Ms. Namgya Khampa, High Commissioner of India, Nairobi, attended the event. During the reception, the Chief of Defence Forces expressed his gratitude for the training provided by the Indian Navy to the Kenya Navy personnel, highlighting the commitment towards continuous cooperation between both countries. As a gesture of goodwill, the Deputy Chief of the Naval Staff presented 200 life jackets to Maj Gen Jimson Muthai, Commander of the Kenya Navy.
Social Outreach and Community Wellbeing
Aligning with the Indian Navy’s social outreach activities, INS Sunayna distributed provisions to an orphanage in Mombasa. This gesture exemplified the commitment to community welfare and showcased the humanitarian side of the naval visit, leaving a positive impact on the local community.
Passage Exercise with Kenya Naval Ship Jasiri
On 23rd June 2023, as part of its departure from Mombasa, INS Sunayna engaged in a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) alongside Kenya Naval Ship Jasiri, strengthening naval cooperation and coordination between the two vessels. This exercise provided an opportunity for both navies to enhance interoperability, strengthen maritime capabilities, and deepen the bond of cooperation in the maritime domain.
