The CIA’s Secret Base in Nairobi Revealed in JFK Assassination Files
The recently declassified JFK assassination files, released by President Donald Trump, have shed light on a little-known aspect of CIA operations during the 1960s – a secret base in Nairobi, Kenya. Alongside five other African cities, Nairobi served as a strategic location for the CIA as it sought to expand its influence amidst the backdrop of the Cold War. The other cities included Lagos, Nigeria; Rabat, Morocco; Johannesburg and Pretoria, South Africa; and Salisbury (now Harare), Zimbabwe.
While the specific details of the Nairobi base remain shrouded in mystery, it is believed to have played a significant role in countering Soviet influence in the region and monitoring political movements across Africa. This covert operation highlights the extent to which the CIA was willing to go to protect US interests during a tumultuous period in global history.
Over the years, the relationship between the CIA and Kenya has evolved into a partnership, particularly following the tragic events of the 1998 US embassy bombings in Nairobi and Dar es Salaam. This pivotal moment marked a turning point in the cooperation between the two entities, as they worked together to combat terrorism and secure stability in the region.
As more details from the JFK assassination files continue to emerge, historians and researchers are gaining a deeper understanding of the complexities of Cold War espionage and the global reach of intelligence agencies. The revelation of the CIA’s presence in Nairobi serves as a reminder of the hidden layers of history that are waiting to be uncovered.
Sources: Kenyans.co.ke