Homeland Security

DATE=5/21/2003

TYPE=CORRESPONDENT REPORT

TITLE=KENYA/U-S SECURITY (S)

NUMBER=2-303461

BYLINE=ALISHA RYU

DATELINE=NAIROBI

CONTENT=

VOICED AT:

INTRO: In Nairobi, the United States is formally handing over nearly one-million-dollars' worth of high-tech security equipment to Kenyan airport authorities. Correspondent Alisha Ryu reports from Nairobi that the donation is not related to the heightened terror level in the east African country.

TEXT: Three Kenyan airports will soon be using sophisticated detection equipment, purchased by the United States. The new security system includes modern baggage X-ray machines, walk-through metal detectors, and explosive trace detectors.

The U-S Embassy in Nairobi says the equipment package is part of a 1998 White House initiative called Safe Skies for Africa. The initiative is intended to help foster the growth of trade and investments through increased air travel between Africa and the United States.

But American and Kenyan officials are also hoping the equipment will improve Kenya's ability to stop potential terrorists from entering the country by air.

Kenya has suffered two major terrorist attacks in the past five years, including the bombing of a hotel last November in Mombasa. Another terrorist warning, issued last week by the Kenyan government, prompted a number of countries to issue travel warnings to Kenya.

Analysts say the terrorist threat is costing the fragile Kenyan economy tens-of-thousands of dollars in lost tourist revenue each week. (SIGNED)

NEB/AR/ALW/RAE