Reinforcing Protection of the Kenya Border shared with Somalia

The U.S. Department of State, through its Bureau of Counterterrorism, has issued a Notice of Funding Opportunity titled Reinforcing Protection of the Kenya Border Shared with Somalia. This federal funding opportunity aims to enhance the operational capabilities of a specialized tactical law enforcement unit within Kenya’s Administrative Police Services that is responsible for securing the border with Somalia. The program is designed as a cooperative agreement with substantial involvement from the Department of State and the U.S. Embassy in Nairobi, reflecting the strategic importance of the initiative to U.S. national security and foreign policy objectives. The primary purpose of this grant is to strengthen counterterrorism operations in a high-risk region where the threat posed by the terrorist organization al-Shabaab remains persistent. The program focuses on improving three core operational capabilities: low-light and night-vision operations, unmanned aircraft systems for intelligence and surveillance, and explosive ordnance disposal. These enhancements are intended to increase the effectiveness of Kenyan forces in detecting, deterring, and neutralizing terrorist threats, particularly in areas surrounding the Manda Bay Military Base, a critical site for U.S. military operations in East Africa. Funding for this opportunity totals approximately $5,920,078, with a single award anticipated. Individual proposals must fall within a range of $200,000 to $5,920,078. The period of performance is limited to 15 months, and projects must be designed to be completed within this timeframe. While cost sharing is encouraged, it is not required and does not influence the evaluation process. The Government of Kenya is expected to contribute in-kind support such as facilities, personnel, and operational resources, which reinforces sustainability and local ownership of the program. Eligible applicants include a broad range of entities such as nonprofit organizations, for-profit organizations, public and private educational institutions, public international organizations, and governmental institutions. All applicants must have a valid Unique Entity Identifier and active registration in SAM.gov at the time of application. Each organization may submit only one proposal. The program encourages applicants with demonstrated experience in counterterrorism, security operations, or capacity building in similar environments. The application process requires submission through Grants.gov or MyGrants and includes several mandatory components. Applicants must complete federal forms such as SF-424, SF-424A, and SF-424B where applicable. A detailed proposal of no more than 12 pages must outline program design, methodology, logic model, theory of change, and a performance monitoring plan. Additional required attachments include resumes of key personnel, letters of support, a risk analysis, and a detailed budget justification narrative. Proposals must clearly align with the stated counterterrorism goals and outcomes described in the NOFO. Applications are due by June 10, 2026, at 5:00 PM Eastern Time. Questions regarding the application process must be submitted by May 1, 2026, with responses provided publicly by May 13, 2026. The anticipated start date for the program is September 30, 2026. Applications will be evaluated based on criteria including program quality and feasibility, organizational capacity, monitoring and evaluation plans, budget justification, and sustainability. Successful applicants will be notified by October 15, 2026. Throughout the award period, recipients will be required to comply with extensive reporting and administrative requirements, including quarterly financial and programmatic reports and biweekly program updates. The Department of State will maintain active oversight, providing strategic guidance and approving key stages of implementation. This ensures that the program remains aligned with evolving counterterrorism priorities and delivers measurable, sustainable outcomes that support both Kenyan security and U.S. national interests.

Align proposal tightly with stated counterterrorism outcomes; demonstrate strong monitoring and evaluation plan; ensure feasibility and sustainability; clearly connect activities to measurable outputs