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President William Ruto has called for opening up the foreign affairs sector, which is domiciled in the Executive arm of the government, to the other levels of government and Kenyan society.

The president who spoke during the consultative meeting for the review of the foreign policy said the country will adopt a ‘whole-of-government and society’ approach towards its relations with the international community.

The President said the new foreign policy should incorporate Parliament, the Judiciary, civil society, faith-based organisations, youth and women as active stakeholders in diplomatic matters.

Kenya’s foreign policy, he noted, is more than the management of relations with other nations—it is about shaping a destiny for present and future generations that aligns with our national interests.

“This policy, therefore, ensures that diplomatic engagements deliver tangible benefits to every Kenyan, unlocking the power of co-operation, the promise of partnerships, and the potential of a shared vision for a prosperous, inter-connected future,” the president stated.

In the new foreign policy that will be created, the Head of State emphasised that it must provide a sound framework for effective strategies that serve national objectives and interests through diplomatic engagements.

Economic diplomacy

Ruto noted that the policy should aim to improve citizens’ welfare, drive national progress and contribute to shared regional and global prosperity.

“Globalisation has driven intensive integration and interdependence, blurring the line between domestic and foreign policy. This makes it imperative to redefine and establish a distinct, comprehensive foreign policy framework,” he added, alluding that the new document has outlined how the country will tackle emerging trends and respond to global dynamics including digital and climate diplomacy.

Additionally, the new document also focuses on revamping economic diplomacy by positioning Kenya as a regional financial hub. Through the policy, Kenyans therefore seek to create trade and economic opportunities for industries and enterprises.

Such opportunities, Ruto said, will target small and medium enterprises and the inclusion of marginalised groups, such as youth, women, and persons living with disabilities.

Notably, the president highlighted the security sector, which he said allowed Kenya to co-exist and maintain good international relations with other countries.

“Our long-standing tradition of effective peace-making, peace-building and peace-keeping has defined us as a force of common good in our region, continent and the world, and sustaining this positive legacy is an important strategic priority for us. This is why Kenya is leading the UN-approved Multinational Security Support Mission in Haiti and mediating peace efforts in South Sudan and across the region,” he said.

He added that the government is committed to sustaining a strong contribution to deepening regional integration.

Under the Shirika Plan, the president hinted that his government will transform camps into integrated settlements, setting a global standard for sustainable and affirmative humanitarian responses.