Kenya finalizes review of Foreign Policy to address global challenges

By Robert Mutasi

Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, who is also in charge of Diaspora and Foreign Affairs, announced that the Kenyan government was making great strides towards updating the Foreign Policy framework.

Speaking after chairing a consultative meeting with Principal Secretary Dr. Sing'oei Korir and the Committee on Foreign Affairs, Mudavadi insisted that the review aims to have Kenya take up a frontline position in efforts toward handling emerging challenges while championing national interests.

The continuous review, leading up to the Kenya Foreign Policy 2024, focuses on three priority areas: addressing global challenges, enhancing economic diplomacy, and strengthening the country's presence internationally. Mudavadi insisted on the need for adjustment to dynamic global realities like climate change, geopolitical shifts, and digitization.

The review of Kenya's Foreign Policy is intended to address the emerging global challenges, enhance economic diplomacy, and advance the strategic interests of our country on the international stage," Mudavadi said.

He emphasized that the government was committed to developing a forward-looking policy that fosters global partnerships, ensures national security, and facilitates sustainable development for all Kenyans.

Economic diplomacy will be the fulcrum of the new framework, anchored on nurturing trade relations and attracting foreign investments.

The policy will also strive to make Kenya play a more significant role in multilateral organizations through strengthened representation and voice in international decision-making processes.

Besides, Mudavadi reiterated that diaspora engagement is warranted, adding that the Kenyan diaspora will be an important component of economic development and cultural exchange.

This review is thus part of Kenya's wide reaching strategy of realigning her foreign policy priorities in a rapidly changing international environment, a factor that reflects the country's desire to be an active player on the global scene for shared challenges and the pursuit of sustainable development goals.

Principal Secretary Dr. Sing'oei Korir also acknowledged the consultative process that allows the policy framework to reflect the aspirations of stakeholders across government and society. Kenya’s foreign policy has long been anchored on principles of peace, stability, and mutual cooperation.

However, the 2024 update aims to expand these foundations, incorporating innovative strategies to safeguard Kenya’s sovereignty and economic prosperity.

The final document of Kenya's Foreign Policy 2024 is expected to be released anytime soon, marking a new chapter in the country's international engagements.

This development underscores the government's commitment to ensuring that Kenya remains competitive and influential on the global stage.