Mandate and Functions

The Fourth Schedule of the Constitution of Kenya identifies Foreign Affairs and Foreign Policy as a function of the National Government.

The Foreign Service Act 2021 (Chapter 185E of the Laws of Kenya) outline the Functions of the Foreign Service

In addition to any other responsibilities designated in writing by the President, the Service shall —

1. Be responsible for the development and management of Kenya’s foreign policy;

2. Conduct and coordinate the international relations and cooperation of the Republic at bilateral, regional and multilateral levels;

3. Enhance protection of Kenya’s sovereignty and territorial integrity;

4. Enhance national, regional and international peace, security and stability;

5. Protect, promote and project national interests globally;

6. Establish and maintain good relations between the Republic and other countries, and international organizations;

7. Manage the Republic’s Missions;

8. Serve and promote the legitimate interests of Kenyans living abroad;

9. Administer diplomatic privileges and immunities;

10. Administer all foreign representations in the Republic;

11. Be the primary interface between the Republic and foreign states and international organizations or entities;

12. Facilitate negotiation and conclusion of international treaties and agreements in consultation with relevant ministries;

13. Maintain custody of ratified international treaties and agreements;

14. Facilitate the integration of Kenya’s foreign policy in national security;

15. Coordinate, monitor and report on the implementation of the Republic’s international obligations;

16. Coordinate and provide protocol services to designated foreign and national dignitaries as prescribed;

17. Provide consular services as prescribed;

18. Coordinate relevant agencies in emergency evacuation of distressed Kenyans abroad; and

19. Perform any other function as may be necessary for the discharge of its mandate as prescribed by any written law.

Management of Kenya’s Foreign Policy;
Projection, Promotion and Protection of Kenya’s Interest and Image Globally;
Management of Kenya’s Missions, Embassies and High Commissions Abroad;
Coordinating Regional Peace Initiatives;
Ratifications/Accession to, Depository and Custodian of all International Treaties, Agreements and Conventions where Kenya is a Party;
Co-ordinations of Matters Relating to the Intergovernemental Authority on Development (IGAD) and the Association of Regional Cooperation (ARC);
Liaising and Coordinating with World Trade Bodies and United Nations Agencies;
Promotion of Nairobi as a Hub for Multilateral Diplomacy;
Lobbying for Kenya Candidature in the International Governance System;

Negotiation and Conclusion of Headquarters and Host Country Agreements with International Organizations and Agencies;
Liaison with International and Regional Organizations;
Liaison with Foreign Missions in Kenya;
Administration of Diplomatic Privileges and Immunities;
Co-ordination of State and Official Visits;
Protocol and State Courtesy;
Provision of Consular Services;
Management of Joint Commissions with other Countries;
Management of Bilateral and Multilateral Relations; and
Official Communications on Global Foreign Relations.

Functions of the State Department for Foreign Affairs