Kindiki calls for disciplined diplomacy to advance Kenya’s interests
By Faith Lagat, March 30, 2026Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has urged Kenya’s diplomats to adopt a disciplined and results-oriented approach to foreign policy that promotes the country’s economic transformation and secures opportunities in trade, investment and global influence.
Speaking while officially closing the 19th Ambassadors’ Conference at Safari Park Hotel in Nairobi on Monday, March 30, 2026, Kindiki said Kenya’s diplomatic engagement must be closely aligned with the government’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).
“Kenya’s diplomacy must deliver economic opportunities, security and stability and exert influence in shaping global outcomes,” he said.
He noted that Kenya’s foreign missions should actively project the country’s economic potential beyond its borders by promoting trade, building investment partnerships and positioning Kenya as a competitive and credible economic partner.
Promoting Kenya abroad
Kindiki called on ambassadors, high commissioners and permanent representatives to take advantage of every opportunity to promote the country internationally.
“You have a big role to play to project Kenya as a safe country, an important country and a country on the move. Sell Kenya in the morning, afternoon, evening, night, from Monday to Sunday, January to December. Sell Kenya forever,” he said.
He said Kenya has made progress in key sectors since 2022 and urged envoys to highlight the country’s economic strength, stability and long-term development ambitions.
The Deputy President noted that the country’s transformation agenda requires significant resources, estimating that about $5 trillion in investment will be needed to achieve the targeted development.
“We cannot do the transformation we are targeting on our own. We need investments, capital injection from the private sector. We have a lot of hope in you. You are the biggest resource we have to help the world partner with Kenya,” he added.
Role of diaspora and infrastructure
Kindiki also highlighted ongoing investments in infrastructure, including roads, railways, seaports and airports, describing them as critical in positioning Kenya as a preferred destination for investors and international business.
He further underscored the role of the Kenyan diaspora, describing citizens living abroad as a strategic extension of the country’s national capacity.
“The protection, dignity, and empowerment of Kenyans overseas is not optional. It is a core obligation,” he said.
Kindiki added that Kenya’s strengths as a stable democracy in a complex region, a leader in renewable energy and climate action, and a hub for diplomacy, logistics and finance should be converted into measurable national gains.
Focus on regional stability
On regional affairs, the Deputy President reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to stability in the region, saying the country’s prosperity is closely linked to that of its neighbours.
He said Kenya will continue playing its role consistently and responsibly while responding to emerging regional and global security challenges.