Foreign Affairs Ministry warns Sh16 billion shortfall will threaten diplomatic growth
The ministry requested Sh39 billion but was allocated only Sh23 billion, affecting key operations and plans.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has warned that the reduced budget for the 2025/26 financial year will limit its ability to maintain and expand Kenya’s diplomatic presence worldwide.
The ministry requested Sh39 billion but was allocated only Sh23 billion, affecting key operations and plans.
More To Read
Principal Secretary Korir Sing'oei told the National Assembly’s Departmental Committee on Defence, Foreign Relations, and Intelligence Committee that they were given Sh12.7 billion for personal emoluments, but needed Sh13.6 billion.
This shortfall of Sh900 million impacts staff postings, promotions, education allowances, and payments for former ambassadors awaiting gratuity.
Sing'oei also said the ministry received Sh900 million for opening new missions.
"We have been allocated Sh900 million for operationalisation and establishment of new missions in Jeddah, Asmara, Abidjan, Bogota, Congo Brazzaville, Hungary, Guangzhou, Haiti and Kinshasa, where we need Sh3 billion," he said.
For state visits, an additional Sh3.42 billion is needed, but only Sh1.88 billion was allocated. Singoei explained the ministry requires funds to cover the Head of State’s travel costs abroad.
The ministry also requested Sh1 billion for a foreign exchange risk facility, but was allocated less.
Sing'oei explained this is necessary because the ministry budgets in Kenyan shillings but makes payments in different foreign currencies, causing losses due to currency exchange.
Sing'oei said the ministry needs Sh500 million to support missions that cover two to three neighbouring countries each.
"Due to financial constraints, Kenya cannot establish diplomatic footprints in all countries, as such the State Department of Foreign Affairs requires Sh500 million to facilitate effective representation by a mission accredited to two to three surrounding countries," he said.
Regarding rent payments for embassies, the ministry was allocated Sh3.267 billion, slightly below the requested Sh3.335 billion. For ICT infrastructure, including computers and printers for new staff and missions, the ministry requested Sh250 million but received Sh156 million.
Requests for Sh450 million to support peace and security talks in South Sudan were not approved.
Sing'oei also mentioned ongoing construction and renovation projects at the ministry headquarters and 25 embassies, costing a total of Sh2.3 billion. The headquarters received Sh100 million for building works.
He urged the committee to consider the long-term effects these budget cuts will have on Kenya’s foreign relations.
Top Stories Today
