Mombasa: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) is intensifying nationwide public and stakeholder engagement on the reviewed Kenya Foreign Policy 2024, positioning it as a key driver of the country’s economic transformation. The robust policy seeks to elevate Kenya’s regional leadership and reinforce its role as a firm advocate for Africa’s interests on the global stage.
According to Kenya News Agency, MFA is in Mombasa for a two-day public engagement forum dubbed Kenya Foreign Policy Mashinani, beginning today at the Bandari Maritime Academy (BMA). The forum marks a new chapter in people-centred diplomacy that transforms policy from an abstract concept into practical conversations. The dialogue signals a shift in Kenya’s diplomatic approach from centralised decision-making to inclusive engagement with County Governments and the public.
A team from MFA, led by Amb. Josphat Maikara, Director General for Political and Diplomatic Affairs, on Tuesday paid courtesy calls to the Mombasa County Commissioner, Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA), Export Processing Zone Authority (EPZA), and the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI). Amb. Maikara stated that the policy outlines Kenya’s national interests and directly affects the public, hence the need to break down its contents to enhance public understanding of the country’s foreign policy priorities.
He noted that the port city of Mombasa is strategically positioned to tap into opportunities in the blue economy, an emerging economic frontier, and to leverage its commercial port to spur regional economic growth. He highlighted Singapore’s transition into a world-class port through efficient management as a model. The DG emphasized that the policy is citizen-centric, and KFP Mashinani aims to explain the public’s role in shaping foreign policy. He expressed optimism that Kenya will be re-elected to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council under Category C for the 2026-2027 term.
Deputy Director General of Political and Diplomatic Affairs at MFA and Ambassador-designate for Thailand, Lucy Kiruthu, echoed these sentiments, noting that Mombasa is a hub for economic transformation. She explained that the policy was reviewed in 2024 after a decade, as it no longer reflected evolving global dynamics. She underscored that the review was inclusive, integrating views from diverse stakeholders through a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach. Public engagement forums aim to demystify the policy, promote ownership, counter misinformation, and enhance public understanding.
Mombasa County Commissioner (CC) Mohamed Noor assured the delegation of continued support, terming the policy a game-changer, especially in labour export. The CC also reiterated the efforts made by the County Security Team in securing the Region as the peak holiday season draws nearer. KMA Director of Maritime Safety Julius Koech noted that seafaring has immense employment potential and the Authority has been working to unlock the potential to increase the number of seafarers employed by foreign vessels.
Ambassador Designate to Saudi Arabia Joseph Masila emphasized the need for government agencies to work together in advancing the country’s interests. He urged the KMA to heighten surveillance of the country’s territorial waters for trade to continue.
