Gachagua: Diplomatic missions key in building economy

By Peter Ochieng

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua says Kenyan diplomatic missions have a key role in building a strong and stable economy.

Gachagua on Tuesday morning had an engagement with Kenya's new ambassadors, high commissioners, consuls-general, and deputy heads of mission to emphasise the economic diplomacy for better results.

The Deputy President said their work is already cut out for them especially on economic matters, as they start their new assignments.

"Our diplomatic missions promote, protect and project the image of Kenya abroad. They have a direct contribution to optimal performance of our trade, remittance from Kenyans abroad, foreign direct investment, strategic partnership, among others," he stated.

"The Ruto administration recognises this critical role of our envoys and we want to reap maximum benefits from our foreign missions as one of the avenues of rebuilding a strong and stable economy."

He said that their work will propel Kenya as the best investment destination in the world.

"Indeed, their optimal performance will propel our country's diplomatic profile as a strategic investment destination on the global stage."

The meeting was attended by among others, Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs Musalia Mudavadi, Cabinet Secretary for Tourism Dr Alfred Mutua, Cabinet Secretary for Cooperatives Simon Chelugui, Secretary to the Cabinet Mercy Wanjau, Principal Secretary for Foreign Affairs Dr. Korir Sing'Oei, and the Principal Secretary for Diaspora Affairs Roseline Njogu.

Mutua, former Machakos governor and foreign and diaspora affairs CS said:

"Our Diplomatic Missions play an active role in promoting, safeguarding, and elevating Kenya’s global image. Their impact spans across optimizing trade, facilitating Kenyan diaspora remittances, attracting foreign direct investment, fostering strategic partnerships, and more."

He was the first diaspora affairs CS in President William Ruto's Kenya Kwanza administration, before being moved to the tourism docket.