Review and Launch of Kenya's Foreign Policy 2024
Kenya's Foreign Policy 2024 was officially launched on December 2, 2024, marking a significant shift in the country's international relations. The revised policy, focuses on eight thematic areas, reflecting Kenya's strategic responses to global imperatives at both bilateral and multilateral levels. The policy, which was developed through a "Whole of Government and Society" approach, aims to attract investments, boost trade opportunities, and empower marginalized groups. The policy aligns with the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA) and emphasizes the pivotal role of small and medium enterprises.
Kenya's reputation as a peace and security leader remains a key focus, with the country actively involved in peace-building efforts and mediating regional conflicts. Climate diplomacy is another priority, with President Ruto spearheading the Africa Climate Summit and advocating for green industrialization and sustainable investment. Kenya's commitment to multilateralism and regional integration is reaffirmed through initiatives like advancing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and advocating for reforms in global financial systems.
The new policy aims to position Kenya as a proactive and influential player in international relations, committed to leveraging diplomacy for national progress and global prosperity. The policy's launch was a significant milestone in Kenya's journey towards the Reviewed Kenya Foreign Policy 2024.
The Journey
The Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs held various stakeholder validation forums to demystify Kenya's foreign policy from "foreign" to citizens. The goal was to find a common ground that reflects Kenya's national interests in international engagements. The Ministry hosted roundtable discussions with the National Assembly's Budget and Appropriations Committee and the Committee on Diaspora Affairs and Migrant Workers, addressing key issues related to serving the needs of Kenyans in the diaspora.
The Defence, Intelligence, and Foreign Relations Committee of the National Assembly also provided input on the revised policy document. The Ministry's collaboration with the August House was crucial in crafting a policy that truly reflects Kenya's aspirations and priorities. Legislators welcomed the push by Dr. Musalia Mudavadi on transitioning the revised policy into a sessional paper for Parliamentary presentation.
The Council of Governors (COG) and the Committee on Security and Foreign Affairs submitted their recommendations towards the revision of Kenya's foreign policy. Dr. Musalia Mudavadi emphasized the need for a coordinated policy framework that aligns national interests, integrating counties as key players in local development. Governors called for a collaborative policy framework defining the specific roles and responsibilities of county governments in foreign affairs, ensuring that county-level engagements align with Kenya's broader foreign policy objectives.
The Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) provided their insights on governance, diplomacy, human rights, and climate change. It was observed that the growing role of CSOs in shaping Kenya's foreign policy, was critical for amplifying local voices on global platforms. The CSOs explored the balancing act between demands for transparency, accountability, and good governance with Kenya's national interests.
Dr. Musalia Mudavadi, Prime Cabinet Secretary, emphasized the media's role as a conduit between people, legislators, and the government in shaping public opinion and foreign policy and called for expanded participation to better the public's awareness and articulation of foreign policy objectives.
Another round-table focused on anchoring peace and security diplomacy in Kenya's foreign policy discourse with experts from various sectors providing insights on how best to achieve a robust Kenya foreign policy. On global health diplomacy Dr. Korir Singoei, highlighted the importance of integrating public health science into diplomatic strategies, stressing the need for a comprehensive policy to guide future international health cooperation and partnerships in global health crisis management.
Critical concerns emerging from the high-level Colloquium on the Review of Kenya's Foreign Policy 2014 emphasised the urgency in having the policy as one that prioritizes national interests and advances Kenya's role on the global stage. Discussions cantered on Kenya's position on Green Growth, Diaspora Diplomacy, and Labour migration, as well as enhancing digital-tech diplomacy.
The Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs appreciates the collective effort and insights of all contributors, whose inputs have shaped a foreign policy vision that embodies Kenya's aspirations and positions the country for sustainable growth and prosperity.