Government launches treaty Database

Nairobi,

Monday November 27, 2023

KNA by Okal Kevin

The Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs in collaboration with United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the African Union (AU) and the government of Sweden Monday launched a project dubbed, “Accelerating the Ratification and Domestication of African Union Treaties.”

This will establish and maintain a public website of treaties and international instruments to which Kenya is a party to.

The database is a digital tool that will enhance efficiency and inclusivity to service delivery and in an effort to facilitate faster and efficient access to treaty services. Further, it provides a comprehensive repository of Kenya's commitment to the global community.

Speaking at the launch, Foreign and Diaspora Affairs Principal Secretary (PS) Dr. Korir Sing’oei said, “One of the key pillars of effective diplomacy is the ability to uphold agreement and honor commitment, with this database we reinforce our dedication to fulfilling our international obligations with utmost integrity.”

Sing’oei further added that the platform’s user-friendly design and robust functionality will empower the diplomats, legal experts, stakeholders and diaspora to access, analyze and contribute to the wealth of information housed within its digital walls.

In the realm of international relations, treaties serve as the foundation for cooperation, cross-nation trade, investment and peace among nations.

“The Office of the Registrar of Treaties derive its mandates from Article 2(5) and (6) of the constitution and the treaty making and ratification Act 2012, which collectively provide that the general rules of international laws form part of laws of Kenya,” said the PS. 

The database is not only a valuable source of treaty information that will serve as a reference point for international stakeholders, citizenry, educational institutions and all public and private sectors, but also a beacon of transparency for the global counterparts, reinforcing Kenya’s commitment to openness and collaboration.

The PS also lauded UNDP and other stakeholders for working tirelessly to bring this project to reality saying their assistance has been invaluable.

Sing’oei urged Kenyans and the diplomatic community to embrace the opportunity that technology presents, noting that this database is not a technological achievement but a symbol of collective dedication to shaping a future where diplomacy is efficient, transparent and accessible.

Registrar of Treaties Amb. James Waweru said that Kenya has ratified 252 treaties, signed but not ratified 11 treaties and is a member of 84 International Organizations.

To this end, the constitution requires the president to report on the progress made by Kenya in fulfilling its international obligations.

Courtesy; KNA