Conference on the Commemoration of the 60th Anniversary of Kenya’s Diplomatic Journey
Government of Kenya represented by the Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, Hon. Musalia Mudavadi, the PS, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Members of the Diplomatic Community, University Staff and students gathered to mark the 60th Anniversary of Kenya’s Diplomatic Relations under the theme, ‘60 years of Kenya’s Diplomacy: The Hits, Misses and Lessons!’ on Thursday, December 5, 2024.
It was a historical day that allowed freedom of expression, reflection and introspection of Kenya’s diplomatic journey, discourses on the why? How? And what then? These were answered through powerful keynote presentations and extensive panel discussions. The programme of the day that was beautifully moderated by the PS, Dr. Korir Sing’oei brought to the fore Kenya’s vital role in Diplomacy. It underscored what Kenya must do to enhance its diplomatic relations.
Chief Guest, Prime Cabinet Secretary, Hon. Musalia Mudavadi expressed his joy to see the University of Nairobi hosting the event because the University’s history and the history of the nation coincide. He also mentioned that the University has been and still is the training ground for most of the Human resource that serves the country.
Hon Mudavadi noted that, ‘The Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs is committed to positioning Kenya at the heart of global governance. Our focus is on amplifying Kenya's trade and investment potential while forging diversified and impactful diplomatic relations.The future of Kenya’s diplomacy, will not only be shaped in boardrooms but also nurtured in classrooms and innovation hubs. We are determined to inspire a generation of young Kenyans to dream boldly and embrace the role of diplomacy in building a better world. I extend my gratitude to the distinguished speakers from diverse sectors, diplomats, academicians, members of parliament, students, and many others whose invaluable contributions made today’s conference a resounding success. Your insights and expertise enriched our discussions, offering profound perspectives on Kenya’s remarkable six-decade journey in diplomacy.’
On his part, the Vice Chancellor, who was represented by Prof. Francis Mulaa, the Ag Deputy Vice Chancellor, Research, Innovation and Enterprise noted that, ‘It is note-worthy that the department of Diplomacy and International Studies was started way back in 1973 as the Diplomacy Training Programme (DTP) under our Department of Government of the University of Nairobi. In our 51 years of teaching in the area of International relations and diplomacy, we are honored for the opportunity to train more diplomats in Eastern Africa including Ambassadors and High Commissioners than many Colleges or Universities in our region.’
The UN Resident Coordinator, Stephen Jackson noted, ‘In 2025 we are expecting to bring over five hundred (500) staff from all over the world. We will also have new conference facilities to make the UN in Kenya very accessible... Kenya in the UN and the UN in Kenya- is a partnership that has benefited us both. From the UN we see Kenya as having and continuing to have a role in the UN. When you speak countries listen’
Amb. Monica Juma, PS Roselyne Njogu, Amb. Martin Kimani were among those who spoke during the conference.
Panel sessions tagged, ‘Reflecting the past and facing the future’, ‘Managing the present while remaining strategic’ and ‘Looking forward- From impacts to Action,’ marked the day.
