Women Diplomats Begin Leadership Programme to Strengthen Kenya’s Foreign Service

The Women in Diplomacy Leadership Programme 2026 has commenced in Nairobi, bringing together women diplomats from Kenya’s Foreign Service for a three-day capacity-building initiative aimed at enhancing leadership, negotiation, communication, and policy influence skills.

The programme was officially launched by H.E. Gisele Fernández Ludlow, Ambassador of Mexico to Kenya; Dr. Ishmael Shaiye, Director of the Office of Strategic Partnerships and Donor Relations; Ms. Carolina Unger, Deputy Director of the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung Kenya Office; and the Acting Director of the Foreign Service Academy, Ambassador Wamoto.

The initiative seeks to strengthen the technical, strategic, and leadership capabilities of women diplomats through expert-led sessions, mentorship engagements, and intergenerational dialogues. It provides a platform for participants to exchange experiences, build networks, and deepen their capacity to contribute effectively to Kenya’s foreign policy objectives.

Over the course of the programme, participants will engage on key thematic areas including gender-responsive diplomacy, peace and security, climate change, strategic communication, and women’s leadership in decision-making. The training underscores the importance of empowering women diplomats to take on greater leadership roles and contribute to a more inclusive and effective diplomatic service.