Kenya eyes Sh34.92 billion overhaul of diplomatic missions by 2028

Kenya is set to spend Sh2.3 billion on upgrading its foreign missions in the upcoming financial year, according to a draft budget document.

The money will be used for the purchase, renovation, and refurbishment of offices and residences of select Kenyan missions abroad.

The improvements will also focus on enhancing infrastructure such as ICT systems and security.

This proposed expenditure, which is part of the State Department for Foreign Affairs' budget, will mark an increase in Kenya's investment in its foreign missions, which has been ongoing for nearly a decade.

Since the start of these upgrades under the leadership of former President Uhuru Kenyatta, a total of Sh8.12 billion will have been spent by the end of the current fiscal year, to improve the condition of Kenya's overseas diplomatic offices and residences.

Long-term project

The renovation and purchase of buildings for Kenya's foreign missions are not a one-time effort but a long-term project.

The total cost of the upgrades is expected to reach Sh34.92 billion by June 2028.

This is part of the government's drive to address the poor state of some of Kenya's foreign mission facilities, which, according to reports from the Office of the Auditor-General, have become "inhabitable" due to years of neglect.

Kenya has over 60 diplomatic missions around the world, with a focus on advancing its trade and security interests.

This year's proposed budget includes major allocations for high-profile projects, including the purchase of a new office block in London and the renovation of the Ambassador's residence in New York. Each of these projects is expected to cost Sh550 million.

The decision to allocate additional funds for these upgrades comes after the current financial year's budget was affected by the country's revenue shortfalls, which led to the postponement of some projects.

However, the new budget now aims to push forward these critical improvements, which are seen as necessary for maintaining Kenya's international diplomatic presence.

The proposed expenditure will be subject to approval by the National Treasury and lawmakers before it can be officially included in the next fiscal year's budget.