Media engaged in review of Kenya’s 2014 Foreign Policy

By Robert Mutasi 

What could be termed a revolutionary step toward openness and inclusivity in the review of Kenya's 2014 Foreign Policy, the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs has officially partnered with the media for the first time. 

This move is part of a broader effort by the government to ensure the media plays an active role in shaping the country's foreign policy framework that will guide Kenya's international relations in the years to come.

He spoke during a roundtable meeting with major media stakeholders on Thursday, October 17, 2024 , where he reaffirmed the integral position the media play in shaping public discourse and influencing policy.

 "The Fourth Estate holds a critical role in shaping public discourse and influencing the direction of foreign policy," the CS said. 

It is the media that create a bridge between government and policy-makers on one side, and the people on the other side, to make the peoples' voices heard in matters of significance and in key decision-making processes.

The meeting, which focused on the ongoing review of the 2014 Foreign Policy document, served as an avenue for the media representatives to engage the Ministry by sharing their views and raising certain salient issues that should be at the core of the policy review. 

In this regard, the Ministry has once again shown resolve to promote open governance and transparency and ensure that all relevant stakeholders are taken on board in this process.

"The involvement of the media in this review process is an expression of our commitment to all-inclusive stakeholder engagement," the CS said. "We believe that through early engagement and invitation for participation by the media, the policy will reflect the true interests of the Kenyan people."

The review of the 2014 Foreign Policy document, guiding Kenya's foreign relations for the last decade, is set to culminate in a comprehensive policy reform. 

It shall be presented to Parliament through a Sessional Paper for deliberation and adoption, marking an important step toward the alignment of Kenya's foreign policy with current global dynamics and interests.

The CS called on the media representatives to submit written contributions for consideration in the new 2024 Foreign Policy document.

 "We invite media practitioners to send in their contributions," said the CS. "Their insight is important in helping the course of Kenya's foreign policy to be well-informed and representative of various opinions in the country."

The roundtable discussion is the first of several consultations with different stakeholders as the Ministry works towards wrapping up the foreign policy reform prior to its submission to Parliament.