Kenya unveils new foreign policy framework to address emerging global trends
By Mwangi Maina |
The updated policy aims to stimulate growth in key sectors, including technology, manufacturing, agriculture, and tourism, while creating job opportunities and driving sustainable development for Kenyans.
Kenya has introduced a new foreign policy document for 2024, replacing the one unveiled in 2014 by former President Uhuru Kenyatta.
The updated framework was launched on Monday at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) by the Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, Musalia Mudavadi, to address Kenya's evolving diplomatic priorities and secure its interests in an increasingly complex international system.
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The launch coincides with events marking Kenya's 60th anniversary of diplomacy ahead of celebrations this week.
Reflecting on the country's diplomatic journey, Mudavadi highlighted Kenya's growth from its humble beginnings in 1963, when it had only six diplomatic missions, to today's impressive 70 missions worldwide.
"We have achieved tremendous milestones since we served as a logistical hub during World War II to today when we have become a core state in the region," Mudavadi said.
The gathering included senior foreign service officers, foreign envoys, and representatives from international organisations based in Nairobi, including the UN.
Kenya now facilitates 109 diplomatic missions for foreign residents and hosts 148 intergovernmental and international organisations.
The foreign policy review, initiated after President William Ruto took office, broadens the scope of Kenya's 2014 policy, which focused on peace diplomacy, economic diplomacy, environmental diplomacy, diaspora diplomacy, and cultural diplomacy.
#BREAKING: Kenya has today launched its new Foreign Policy document for 2024, which will replace the 2014 version introduced by former President Uhuru Kenyatta.
— The Eastleigh Voice (@Eastleighvoice) December 2, 2024
🎥: HANDOUT pic.twitter.com/ncxQoQZzBd
The new document incorporates emerging issues such as global health, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), space diplomacy, and digital diplomacy.
Mudavadi emphasised Kenya's strategic position as a regional hub and its commitment to leveraging this to advance economic and commercial diplomacy.
"Kenya has fortified its position as a leader and active contributor to regional integration through its membership in the EAC, COMESA, and the African Continental Free Trade Area," he stated.
The updated policy aims to stimulate growth in key sectors, including technology, manufacturing, agriculture, and tourism, while creating job opportunities and driving sustainable development for Kenyans.
The revision process involved consultations with various stakeholders, including former ambassadors, high commissioners, global health representatives, peace and security experts, academia, civil society, and media professionals.
This marks the first review of Kenya's foreign policy since 2014, reflecting the country's commitment to adapting to global trends and ensuring a proactive and robust diplomatic strategy.
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