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The Government of Kenya is undertaking a significant revision of its Foreign Policy to address the evolving dynamics of both the domestic and international environments. This comes a decade after the country first published its Foreign Policy document in 2014.
Principal Secretary for Shipping and Maritime Affairs, Geoffrey Kaituko, underscored the importance of the review during a Breakfast Round Table Meeting on Maritime and Blue Economy Diplomacy. Kaituko noted that the review is crucial to ensure that Kenya’s Foreign Policy continues to reflect the nation’s interests, particularly in light of the emergence of new sectors such as the blue economy.
“In 2014, the Government of Kenya published its first Foreign Policy document. Since then, significant changes in both the domestic and international environments have occurred, requiring the review of the Policy to make sure that the emerging developments are taken into consideration,” Kaituko stated.
The review process has been spearheaded by Principal Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Dr. Abraham Korir Sing’oei, who, along with his team, has conducted a series of consultations with various stakeholders. These engagements aim to craft a Foreign Policy that not only responds to current global trends but also positions Kenya strategically in the maritime and blue economy sectors.
Kaituko, who was invited to share his perspectives at the round table, emphasized the need for the revised policy to support these emerging sectors effectively. He was joined by other key figures, including PS for Blue Economy Betsy Njagi, PS Defence Dr. Patrick Mariru, Amb. Nancy Karigithu, Juvenal Shiundu, and Dr. Eric Aligula.
During the meeting, the stakeholders discussed the critical role that Kenya’s Foreign Policy plays in promoting the maritime and blue economy sectors. They also explored how the policy can enhance Kenya’s diplomatic engagements and economic prospects within these industries.
Kaituko expressed his gratitude to Ambassadors Eliphas Barine and Lucy Kiruthu for their efforts in facilitating the successful engagement. He highlighted the importance of such discussions in ensuring that Kenya remains competitive and proactive in the global arena, particularly in the increasingly vital maritime and blue economy sectors.
As Kenya looks to the future, the revised Foreign Policy is expected to reflect the country’s ambitions in these sectors, providing a framework for sustainable growth and international cooperation. The meeting marks a critical step towards aligning Kenya’s foreign relations with its economic priorities, ensuring that the country’s interests are well-represented on the global stage.
