On 11 May 2026, Mashariki Research and Policy Centre (MRPC) and National Defence University-Kenya (NDU-K) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) formalising a strategic partnership between the two institutions.

The ceremony was held at the NDU-K seat in Lanet, Nakuru, with MRPC Chief Executive Officer, Brig. (Rtd) Dr. Robert Kabage, signing on behalf of the Centre, while Vice-Chancellor, Lt Gen David Tarus, signed on behalf of the University. The event was also attended by senior university leadership, including Maj Gen Joyce Sitienei, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Centre for Security and Strategic Studies at NDU-K, among other distinguished guests.

The MoU establishes a framework for collaboration in areas of mutual interest, particularly evidence-based research, strategic analysis, and policy engagement. It further institutionalises cooperation in project development and bidding, research and data utilisation, capacity building and training, exchange of subject matter expertise, as well as publication and policy discourse.

The partnership reflects the shared commitment of both institutions to advancing strategic research, strengthening evidence-based policy development, and contributing to informed responses to evolving security challenges in Kenya and the Greater Eastern Africa region.

In a separate event held at the same venue, MRPC was also honoured to witness the launch of Volume 4, Issue 1 of National Security: A Journal of National Defence University-Kenya. The publication marks an important contribution to scholarly and policy discussions on emerging security challenges in the country.