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New Dawn

THE OFFICIAL BULLETIN OF THE MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS KENYA

OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2017 VOLUME 1 ISSUE 3

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Diani BeachVoted one of the best beaches in

the world

Principal SecretaryDiaspora & Consular Affairs

Economic Affairs & Commercial DiplomacyPermanent Mission to UN, New York

Kenya Embassy, QatarKenya Embassy, Bujumbura

CONTRIBUTORS

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CHAIRMAN

Joseph Masila

EDITOR

Edwin Limo

MEMBERS

1. James Omosa

2. Patrick Mujumba

3. Janet Chepkorir

4. Severine Luyali

5. Waithira Njuguna

6. Andrew Mujivane

7. Anastacia Osundwa

8. Kawira Githinji

9. Festus Wangwe

10. Mildred Ming’ala

11. Martin Owuor

12. Jane Kariuki

13. Isabel Maithya

14. Andrew Kuria

Facebook: /ForeignOfficeKe Twitter: @ForeignOfficeKEYoutube: Foreign Office KEEmail : mfapress@mfa.go.keWebsite : www.mfa.go.ke

This year has been an eventful year. On the political front, the country experienced moments of anxiety, uncertainty but also moments of hope and expectancy. It was during this year that the country went through two presidential elections in two months that eventually ushered in President Uhuru Kenyatta’s second term.

It was during his inauguration speech that the President threw in a spin on the traditional diplomatic practice of reciprocity and embraced

Africans and Africa without conditions. Henceforth, in pushing forward his Afro-centric approach to Kenya’s Foreign Policy, the President ordered the issuance of visas on arrival for the whole Continent.

Closer home, the President declared that residents of East African Community are free to come to Kenya and will be treated as Kenyans in every aspect of the word. In both these cases, the President was categorical, “not on reciprocal terms.” In other words, Kenya will do this whether other countries respond in a similar manner or not.

Presidents Kenyatta’s second term inauguration pronouncements are bound to have far-reaching repercussions on Kenya Foreign Policy, a fete that the Ministry is well prepared to adhere to. This scenario is covered in-depth on this third issue of our Diplomatic Bulletin.

We have also given space to reporting on engagements by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs aimed at raising the standing of the country at the world stage. Forays that have led to an increase Foreign Direct Investment and checked the balance of trade between Kenya and its partners. Kenya’s participation in the World Trade Organization 11th Ministerial Conference in Buenos Aires is one such engagement that seeks level playing ground in the international arena.

Kenya’s endeavours too in regional peace, especially in the Horn of Africa, has been given coverage. Similar treatment has been accorded the regular engagement of Diplomatic Corps Briefings which the Ministry has since institutionalised.

There are several stories from United Nations General Assembly including the imminent upgrading of United Nations office in Nairobi.

Full-colour pictorial in this issue zeroes in mainly on this year’s celebrations of Jamhuri Day in the various Kenyan embassies abroad. We wish you a pleasant reading.

Edwin LimoEditor

EDITOR’S NOTE

Diplomacy Bulletin is a quarterly publication of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Any part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in retrieval system or transmitted in any form provided full acknowledgment to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs as source is given.While every effort is made to ensure accuracy of information contained in this Bulletin, the Ministry accept no responsibility for any loss, financial or otherwise, sustained by any person using this publicationAny inquiries relating to the content should be addressed to the editor.

New Dawn

THE OFFICIAL BULLETIN OF THE MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS KENYA

OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2017 VOLUME 1 ISSUE 3

President Uhuru second term in office begins

Cover Photo

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TABLE OF

CONTENTS

3Editor’s Note

15Reflections on the 2017 General Elections in Kenya

22Kenya,Lithuania deepen cooperation

29Role of Ministry in Economic Diplomacy

6Pan-African Agenda at heart of President Kenyatta’s 2nd Term

16Kenya keen to sustain partnerships on health

23Kenya streamlines labour export to the Gulf

31Kenyan tea shines in Qatar exhibition

8Kenya urges UN to consolidate UNEP functions in Nairobi

17Release of jailed South Sudan Four

25Kenya, Tanzania discuss trade relations

32Ambassador Amina Mohamed leads Kenyan Delegation to WTO MC11

CONTENTSContributors 2

Editor’s note 3

Pan-african agenda at 6

Heart of president kenyatta’s 2nd term 6

Kenya urges un to consolidate unep functions in nairobi 8

Consultative meeting on peace in the horn of africa 10

Nairobi now africa’s 11

Leading diplomatic and conference hub 11

Kenya committed to stabilisation of somalia 13

Reflections on the 2017 general elections in kenya 15

Kenya keen to sustain partnerships on health 16

Release of jailed south Sudan four 17

Kenya’s efforts in promoting regional trade and integration 18

Kenya - uae enhance relations 20

International community urged to combat human trafficking 21

Kenya-lithuania deepen cooperation 22

Kenya streamlines labour export to the gulf 23

Kenya, tanzania discuss trade relations 25

Plans underway to refurbish united nations office in nairobi 26

Embassy hosts its 4th edition of kenya trade, investment & cultural expo 27

Kenya woos thai investors 28

Role of ministry in economic diplomacy 29

Kenyan tea shines in qatar exhibition 31

Ambassador amina mohamed leads kenyan delegation to wto mc11 32

Kenya marks 54th jamhuri day celebration 33

Pictorial 34

Pictorial 36

Strengthening kenya’s democratic credentials 38

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10Consultative meeting on peace in the Horn of Africa

18Kenya’s efforts in promoting regional trade and integration

26Plans underway to refurbish United Nations office in Nairobi

33Kenya marks 54th Jamhuri Day Celebration

11Nairobi now Africa’s leading Diplomatic and Conference Hub

20Kenya, UAE enhance relations

27Embassy hosts 4th edition of Kenya trade, investment & cultural expo

34Pictorial

13Kenya committed to stabilisation of Somalia

21International community urged to combat human trafficking

28Kenya woos Thai Investors

36Pictorial

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President Uhuru Kenyatta, in his inauguration speech on November 28, 2017, directed the easing

of travel regulations to Kenya for all Africans who will henceforth receive visas on arrival. To underscore Kenya’s commitment to this move, President Kenyatta said this shall not be done on the basis of reciprocity.

President Uhuru Kenyatta said: “The free movement of people on our continent has always been a cornerstone of Pan-African brotherhood and fraternity. The freer we are to travel and live with one another, the more integrated and appreciative of our diversity, we will become. The political balkanisation that risks our mutual security, the negative politics of identity, will recede as our brotherhood expands to embrace more Africans.”

The citizens of East Africa Community countries – Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, South Sudan and Burundi – will henceforth enjoy all the rights of Kenya nationals including property ownership and permanent settlement. The President said: “As a mark of our continued commitment to you, our brothers and sisters in the East African Community; from today, you will be treated like Kenyans. Like your Kenyan brothers and sisters, you will need only your identity card. You can now work, do business, own property, farm and if you wish and find a willing partner, you can marry and

settle in Kenya. And this commitment we make with no conditions for reciprocity but driven by our desire for deeper regional integration. As l welcome you, l remind you that equally you shall be subject to the same rules and laws as your Kenyan brothers and sisters.”

Underscoring the inextricable relations between us, the President Kenyatta noted that; “Our fate and yours are joined at the hip; our troubles and triumphs are yours, and yours are ours. I will work with you, my brothers,

PAN-AFRICAN AGENDA AT THEHEART OF PRESIDENT KENYATTA’S 2ND TERM

Deputy President William Ruto takes oath of office during the swearing-in ceremony at Moi International Sports Center, Kasarani.

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the leaders of the East African Community, to bring a renewed energy and optimism to our union. Together, we can deliver the peace and prosperity for which our citizens are crying out; divided, we will struggle to realise the full potential of our people.”

On the domestic front President Kenyatta focused his vision for his second term on the BIG FOUR: Housing, Manufacturing, Universal healthcare and Agriculture. Underlying the Big Four will be value addition and job-creation. This will entail reaching out to our key trading partners to work with us to achieve a win-win outcome that enables Kenyans to get the most out of their products. It will also involve negotiations to open new international markets for our products and to attract new investments.

On Kenya’s role in the global scene, President Kenyatta thanked Kenya’s friends for the continued support. He said Kenya was a proud member of the community of nations and will always work hard to remain a force for good. This will be achieved through continued strengthening of economic ties and bilateral and multilateral relations.

He further added that Kenya had learnt that in the fight against terrorism, free and democratic nations are allies against a common enemy. “We will continue to fight together, to share our knowledge and to support our allies. As we have for half a century, we will work for peace in our region, for that is what a good neighbour does.”

The inauguration ceremony was graced by distinguished Heads of State and Government including President Yoweri Museveni, Uganda; President Paul Kagame, Rwanda; President Edgar Lungu, Zambia; President Lt. Gen. Ian Seretse Khama, Botswana; President Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed, Somalia; President Hage Geingob, Namibia; President Ali Bongo Ondimba Gabon; Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn, Ethiopia; President Salva Kiir, South Sudan and President Ismail Omar Guelle, Djibouti.

Other dignitaries included the Prime Minister Mamadi Youla, Togo; First Vice President Gaston Sindimwo, Burundi; Prime Minister Barnabas Sibusiso Dlamini, Swaziland: Yemi Osinbajo, Vice President of Nigeria; Salma Hassan, Tanzania Vice President; Amina Toure, former Prime Minister of Senegal; Rupia Banda, former Zambia President and Thabo Mbeki former South Africa President. Pierre Buyoya, former President of Burundi, represented the African Union Chair.

After the official inauguration ceremony, the visiting leaders and other dignitaries attended a State Luncheon at State House, Nairobi. The President also had opportunity to hold one-on-one talks with the visiting Heads of State and Government including Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu who delivered a speech as Chief Guest. §

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, inspects a guard of honour mounted by Kenya Army at JKIA, shortly after arrival for President Kenyatta’s Inauguration on November 28, 2017

» 150 delegations » 11 Heads of State & Government » 47 Ministerial level representation » 92 Ambassadorial representation

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Foreign Affairs Cabinet Secretary, Amb. Amina Mohamed, while addressing the 72nd UN General

Assembly on behalf of President Uhuru Kenyatta, urged the United Nations Member States to consolidate headquarter functions of Unite Nations Environmental Program (UNEP) in Nairobi, as envisioned in the decision of the Rio Declaration of Heads of State. Amb. Mohamed expressed concern that the matter is not receiving the attention it deserves. She commended the UN for the measures it has so far undertaken to strengthen and upgrade UNEP to enable it respond to global environmental challenges.

Acknowledging the theme of the 72nd session ‘Focusing on people: striving for peace and a decent life for all on a sustainable planet’, the CS said Kenya agrees and supports the priorities for action as outlined to guide the focus on people namely; peace and conflict prevention, migration, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), climate action and human rights. Amb. Mohamed further added that these priorities are urgent and deserve the attention of not only governments but also the private sector and civil societies.

Referring to the global disruptions on the livelihoods of millions of people as a result of climate change, she informed that Kenya had enacted legislation to implement the Paris Agreement notably a commitment to 30 per cent reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by 2030.

Noting that the capacity of the planet to sustain life was threatened, Amb. Mohamed urged developed countries to extend financial, technological and capacity building support to enable developing countries transition to low-carbon development by meeting their pledges to the Green Climate Fund, to help developing countries deal with adaptation issues.

The CS also called for strong partnerships toward the realisation of SDGs saying there is a lot of talk about partnership but not enough practical, on-the-ground support to make partnerships effective in practice.

She reiterated the need for Governments and private sector stakeholders to revitalise the global partnership for sustainable development, particularly through development co-operation and development financing.She reiterated Kenya’s commitment to achieving the SDGs citing the provision of free maternal health care services across the country and the establishment of the SDGs Partnership Platform that aims to accelerate its attainment. The Platform brings together the Government, development partners, private sector, civil society and the UN in creating diverse SDG accelerator windows of which Primary Healthcare has been the first.

The CS also called upon United Nations Member States to establish an Urban Assembly to replace the

KENYA URGES UN TO CONSOLIDATE UNEP FUNCTIONS IN NAIROBI

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58-member Governing Council at the UN-Habitat to better coordinate urban matters across the entire UN system.

In addition Amb. Mohamed also took the opportunity to address a wide range of other multilateral issues including the reform of the United Nations Security Council, global terrorism, peace and security, global counter trafficking in persons, prohibition of nuclear weapons and management of refugees and migrants.

She reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to multilateralism saying Kenya was committed to working together with other members of the international community in tackling the 21st Century challenges. §

United Nations Office in Nairobi

Foreign Affairs CS Amb Amina Mohamed with UN Secretary General António Guterres in New York during 72nd UN General Assembly UNON Headquarters Gigiri, Nairobi

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The Principal Secretary Amb. Monica Juma on October 8 - 10, 2017 led Kenyan delegation to the

Strategic Consultative meeting on the Horn of Africa held in Khartoum. The meeting was organized by the African Union (AU), Inter-Government Authority on Development (IGAD) and Sudanese Government in an effort to develop a shared strategy towards addressing the complex peace and security challenges in the Horn of Africa.

The meeting heralds similar consultative fora in the Horn of Africa whose overarching goal is to reach a shared definition and understanding of the existing and emerging challenges confronting the region and a common ownership of the problems and strategies required to address them.

Approximately 150 participants comprising of experts, policymakers and government officials attended the meeting including H.E. Thabo Mbeki, Former President of South Africa and Chairman of the African Union High-Implementation Panel (AUHIP); H.E. Smail Chergui, The African Union (AU) Commissioner for Peace and Security; and Amb. Tewolde Gebremeskel, the IGAD Director of Peace and Security. The opening ceremony of the meeting was graced by H.E. Prof. Ibrahim Ghandour, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of the Sudan.

Amb. Juma was accompanied by Amb. Catherine Mwangi, Kenya’s Ambassador to Ethiopia and Permanent Representative to AU, Amb. Arown Suge,

CONSULTATIVE MEETING ON PEACE IN THE HORN OF AFRICA

Kenya’s Ambassador to the Republic of The Sudan and Mr. John Kilonzi, Director, Peace and Security, Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

In her address to the Forum, the Principal Secretary underscored the need for Horn of Africa States to deepen democratic values, enhance state effectiveness, entrench inclusive political and economic participation and pursue a shared regional vision of prosperity as part of their efforts to build long lasting peace and stability in the region. She further urged partnership with the Gulf States in the fight against terrorism and other transnational crimes perpetrated in the Horn of Africa Region.

During a courtesy call to the Minister for Foreign Affairs of The Sudan, Amb. Juma congratulated the Government and the people of the Republic of The Sudan following the decision of the Government of the United States of America (USA) to lift economic sanctions against the country. Prof. Ghandour hailed H.E. President Uhuru Kenyatta for his bold decision to respect the verdict of the Supreme Court nullifying his re-election as the President of the Republic of Kenya adding that the decision elevated Kenya’s democratic credentials.

While in Khartoum, she also hosted African Ambassadors and the Kenyan Diaspora during which she took the opportunity to highlight the electoral process in Kenya. The Ambassadors praised Kenya for her steadfastness in entrenching democracy and setting an example in Africa. §

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Nairobi has emerged as a preferred diplomatic and economic hub and a premier venue for

international meetings and conferences in Africa.

In the recent past, Kenya has successfully lobbied for and hosted a number of international meetings and conferences. Some of these are: the 10th World Trade Organization Ministerial Conference (WTO MC10) in December 2015, the 14th United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD 14) in July 2016, the Sixth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD VI) in August 2016, Second High Level Meeting of Global Partnership (HLM2) Conference in November 2016, the Special Summit of the Inter-Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD) in March 2017, and the just concluded United Nations Environmental Assembly (UNEA) Conference held in December, 2017.

The sheer size and high profile nature of the conferences presents a great multiplier effect which yield significant dividends for the Kenyan economy. For example, the TICAD VI Summit attracted 18,000 participants with 32 Heads of State and Government in attendance and saw 73 MoUs worth Kshs. 3 trillion on trade and investment between Africa and Japan signed, with Kenya securing Kshs. 27.3 billion from Japan to support industry.

NAIROBI NOW AFRICA’S LEADING DIPLOMATIC AND CONFERENCE HUB

The 2016 Country and City Rankings by the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) placed Kenya at position 72 globally, having hosted eighteen (18) international meetings in 2016. Kenya was ranked second in Africa.

By leveraging on the important role of conferencing, Kenya will continue to consolidate and strengthen its foreign relations and diplomatic engagements with other countries and international and multilateral organisations at the regional, continental and international level.

Nairobi hosts two UN headquarters, UN Habitat and the United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP), making it the only UN headquarters located in the global South. This reinforces Nairobi’s position as the leading diplomatic hub in Africa. Other UN Agencies global headquarters are based in Geneva (Switzerland), New York (USA), Paris (France), Rome (Italy) and Vienna (Austria).

Kenya’s commitment towards strengthening the status of the United Nations Office in Nairobi (UNON) bore fruit following the upgrading of United Nations Environment Assembly to universal membership and as the leading global environmental authority. As a result, the inter-sessional body of UNEP now has a universal character and its membership has increased from the current 54 to the entire membership of the

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Diplomats Mark Africa Day in Nairobi

United Nations of 193. Since then, the Ministry has been receiving requests from Foreign Governments to facilitate accreditation of specific Representatives to UNEP. Nairobi can now rightly be dubbed the Environment Capital of the World.

Kenya is also the leading regional logistics and command centre for the UN’s delivery of humanitarian and development efforts in Eastern and Central Africa. Currently, there are at least 25 UN agencies operating in the country, with dozens of UN programs and agencies represented.

Nairobi is also host to diplomatic missions that play a critical role in maintaining the relationship between their countries and Kenya. Presently, Kenya hosts 85 fully-fledged Missions: 27 African Missions, 25 from Europe, 13 from Middle East, 12 from Asia and 8 from the Americas. In addition, Kenya hosts five General Consulates and 25 Honorary Consulates.

The growing stature of Nairobi as Africa’s leading economic, diplomatic and conferences hub is bolstered by its geostrategic location and a vibrant gateway to the East and Central African region. This is reflected in its comparative advantages that include, but are not limited to: the country’s pro-business and dynamic environment as evidenced by the presence of numerous multinational companies in Kenya; the accessibility serviced by over 30 foreign airlines operating to and from Kenya through the country’s international airports in Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu and Eldoret; and vibrant communications, medical and banking sectors among others.

In pursuit of the Kenya Foreign Policy objectives of promoting Nairobi as an economic, diplomatic and international conferences hub, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in collaboration with other government agencies will continue to lobby to increase the frequency of critical conferences, summits and meetings to be hosted in Nairobi. §

85Number of fully fledged Missions hosted in Nairobi

30Consulates in Nairobi

75International Organisations based here

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During the High-Level meeting on Somalia on the sidelines of the 72nd Session of the United Nations

General Assembly, Amb. Amina Mohamed delivered a speech reiterating Kenya’s commitment to stabilisation of Somalia. This commitment and leadership role, which has been attested to by sustained diplomatic engagements, has yielded remarkable successes.

The successful conclusion of the 2016/2017 electoral process that led to the assumption to office by President Mohamed Abdullahi in a peaceful transition set Somalia on a path towards improved governance and political stability. Economically, Mogadishu is increasingly becoming open for business.

During a State Visit to Kenya in March, 2017, H.E Mohamed Abdullahi held bilateral discussions with H.E. Uhuru Kenyatta where the two Heads of State agreed to re-activate and hold regular sessions of the Joint Commission for Cooperation (JCC). Through this framework of cooperation, Kenya made commitments including the establishment of more border posts to ease the movement of people; resumption of direct air services between Mogadishu and Nairobi; and training on behalf of the Government of Somalia, an agreed number of teachers, nurses and administrators.

Kenya has helped train Somali workforce in different economic fields including; teaching, nursing,

administration, police service among others. These modest capacity building assistance programmes will facilitate the expansion and extension of critical public services by the Government of Somalia to its citizens. Kenya welcomes the international community and friends to partner with Somalia and Kenya to avail additional resources for more capacity building programmes for Somali officials which could be delivered in Kenya’s institutions.

Kenya’s commitment has been consistent as demonstrated by the participation of President Uhuru Kenyatta in all the Summits of Heads of State and

KENYA COMMITTED TO STABILISATION OF SOMALIA

11 tonnesof assorted medicine donated by Kenya to Somalia following the Mogadishu terror

attack that claimed over 300 lives.

31 injured victimsevacuated to Nairobi for treatment

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Government convened since 2013, specifically to review the status of the Somali peace process and make critical decisions to push the process forward. Kenya has also participated in many other international meetings on the Somalia including hosting of IGAD Summit and technical meetings in Nairobi.

The Government of Kenya has been supporting Somalia Refugee Voluntary Repatriation Programme to which it has contributed Kshs. 1 billion. The exercise is being carried out in collaboration with the UNHCR and the Government of Somalia.

Kenya also continues to support Somalia in responding to emergencies such as the recent terror attack in Mogadishu on 14th October 2017 which claimed more

CS Amina receives Somalia President Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed at JKIA in March, 2017 when he arrived for a State visit

PS Monica Juma at Wilson Airport to receive Mogadishu bomb victims. Kenya evacuated 31 injured victims for treatement in Nairobi

than 300 lives. Following the attack, Kenya donated 11 tons of assorted medicine which was airlifted to Mogadishu for the injured victims and brought many injured victims for specialised treatment in Kenyan hospitals. In spite of the many challenges that Somalia still faces, remarkable positive developments have been witnessed in almost every sector, placing it on course towards socio-economic and political transformation.

In pursuit of its foreign policy pillar of Peace Diplomacy, Kenya has continued to play an active role in the reconstruction and institution-building efforts in Somalia. This has been necessary for the country’s recovery from conflict and to support the development of integrated strategies to lay a foundation for sustainable development and economic take off of Somalia. §

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On Tuesday, August 8, 2017 Kenyans went to the polls to elect their leaders to the six elective

positions as provided for in the Constitution. Prior to the General Elections, steps were taken to ensure that the elections were not only transparent, credible, free and fair, but peaceful and that the outcome reflects the will of the people. Significant lessons learnt in the 2013 General Elections were ploughed back into the preparatory process aimed at minimizing margins of error.

Being the 12th election since Kenya’s independence in 1963, Kenya continues to demonstrate appreciation that the will of the people of Kenya and the foundation of the legitimate authority of Government is determined through credible, periodic and democratic electoral processes. The democratization process has had significant progress towards consolidation of an independent parliament, a restructured independent judiciary and other independent electoral stakeholders.

The election, in many ways, was a transitional test and a clear validation of the Constitution promulgated in

REFLECTIONS ON THE 2017 GENERAL ELECTIONS IN KENYA

2010. The election tested the capacity, resilience and endurance of established norms.

On September 1, 2017, the Supreme Court nullified the presidential results of the 8th August, 2017 elections following a petition challenging the outcome. Subsequently, a repeat presidential poll was held on October 26, 2017 and President Uhuru Kenyatta was re-elected.

The 2017 electoral process was not only important to Kenya but the region and the entire continent in consolidating our democratic credentials. As a political and economic powerhouse, and a relative bastion of peace in the region, Kenyan domestic politics play a critical role to regional stability.

The annulment of the presidential results – a first of its kind in Kenya – affirms the independence of the institutions of governance and rule of law and therefore a further endorsement of Kenya’s constitutional values; that, a solution can be found in courts; democracies should endeavor to strengthen institutions; democracy and institutions complement each other and that democracy is expensive but a worthwhile endeavor for global prosperity.

As a nation we are moving forward and the Kenyan democratic credentials and resilience is progressively deepening. With commitment to the rule of law our constitutional-ism is robust. §

Kenya democratic credentials and resilience is progressively growing

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The Cabinet Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Amb. Amina Mohamed represented the President Uhuru

Kenyatta in the High-level Dialogue on accelerating access to primary healthcare, held in New York on September 17, 2017. In the speech, she highlighted that Kenya is seeking to enhance partnerships and innovations geared towards accelerating the achievement of universal health care coverage in the country.

Kenya has been implementing the Health Sector Strategic Plan that provides the guiding framework for detailed planning and implementation of health sector activities. The Plan is premised on Kenya’s commitment to several international and regional initiatives such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Universal Health Coverage, and the Paris, Abuja, and Maputo declarations that aim to achieve sustainable socio-economic development. A mid-term evaluation of the Plan indicates that enhancing partnerships and innovations will be instrumental in the realization of SDGs in the country.

The implementation of the Health Sector Strategic Plan has been a major success following close collaboration and partnership between the Government and key stakeholders. Amb. Mohamed underscored Kenya’s commitment to continue engaging various partners and stakeholders in strengthening primary and community healthcare.

KENYA KEEN TO SUSTAIN PARTNERSHIPS ON HEALTH

During the meeting, the Cabinet Secretary witnessed the signing of the Multi-Partner Trust Fund Agreement between Royal Philips and the United Nations which is expected to strengthen the SDGs Platform in Kenya. The Platform brings together Government leaders, development partners and the private sector to identify opportunities for accelerating universal access to healthcare services in Kenya.

Through Private Sector Health Partnership Kenya Platform, companies such as Philips, Unilever, Safaricom, Merck (MSD), Huawei and GSK, are partnering with the National and County Governments. The partnership aims to build models with the potential for scaling-up the delivery of healthcare for vulnerable and poor populations in the low-resource areas of Mandera, Migori, Marsabit, Wajir, Isiolo and Lamu. Kenya welcomes the partnerships given the overall goal of improving health and well-being for 46 million Kenyans by accelerating access to quality community-based primary health care.

Amb. Mohamed also cited the partnership between the Governments of Kenya, Kingdom of The Netherlands and the United Nations, which aims to accelerate progress towards primary healthcare through large-scale public-private partnerships. The high-level dialogue moderated by Mr. Siddharth Chatterjee, UN Resident Coordinator to Kenya, was

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CS Amina Mohamed witnesses signing of Multi-partner Trust Fund Agreement in support of SDG platform in Kenya

representative to the UN, UNDP Administrator Mr. Achim Steiner and Mr. Michel Sidibe, Executive Director, UNAIDS. §

also addressed by Mr. Ronald de Jong, Philips Executive Committee Member and President of the Philips Foundation. Others who addressed the meeting include Amb. Karel van Oosterom, Netherlands Permanent

On October 6, 2017, PS Monica Juma received four Kenyans who had remained incarcerated in a

South Sudan jail since May 29, 2015, and handed them over to their families.

The release of the four; Anthony Keya Munialo, Boniface Muriuki Chuma, Ravi Ramesh Ghaghda and Antony Mwadime Wazome followed a two-year long diplomatic negotiation for their unconditional release. They were initially sentenced to life imprisonment, which was later commuted to nine years following an appeal.

Through the intervention of President Uhuru Kenyatta to his South Sudan counterpart President Salva Kiir during the inauguration, South Sudan agreed to release the four. This affirms the excellent and strong bilateral relations that exist between Kenya and South Sudan.

PS Monica Juma while handing the four to their families said it had been a long period of uncertainty and anguish for their loved ones to be in custody in a foreign land. “As a Government, we too have been deeply concerned and have continuously engaged with the Government of South Sudan at various levels to have this issue resolved,” she said.

She assured the Government will remain committed to protecting all Kenyans wherever they are, but appealed would be job seekers going abroad to always do due diligence by conducting the Government to confirm the nature or credibility of companies offering opportunities.

“We urge all Kenyans to exercise caution and if in doubt to always contact the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for confirmation of such opportunities abroad,” was PS Juma’s parting short. §

RELEASE OF JAILED SOUTH SUDAN FOUR

PS Monica Juma receiving the South Sudan Four

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Regional integration is a process where countries enter an agreement to cooperate for mutual benefit

of all members. Africa under Agenda 2063 aims at an integrated, prosperous and peaceful continent driven by its own citizens and representing a dynamic force globally. Africa integration is therefore vital for the successful implementation of Agenda 2063.

Over the last decade, Kenya has pursued regional integration as a strategy to increase trade and investments. This is due to the realisation that countries can develop and prosper when they join together as partners by leveraging on the economies of scale and comparative advantage. The Ministry has been pursuing this strategy as guided by the economic pillar of the Kenya Foreign Policy, which aims at achieving a robust economic transformation as envisaged in the Kenya Vision 2030.

In pursuit of regional integration, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has continued to coordinate activities aimed at deepening the integration of regional economic blocs including East African Community (EAC), Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), COMESA-EAC-SADC Tri-Partite Free Trade Area (TFTA) and the Continetal Free Trade Area (CFTA). Regional integration has several benefits to Kenya which include regional stability, increased trade and investment among others.

The EAC has five Member States with a population of about 165 million people and a combined GDP of about US$ 147 billion while COMESA has 19 Member States with a population of about 493 million people and a combined GDP of about US$ 657 billion. In addition, the two regions grew by 5.8% (2016) and 6% (2015). This shows that these regions provide a sizeable market of Kenya’s products.

Since 2013, Kenya’s trade value in the region has grown significantly as a result of the deepened integration efforts that have widened the scope of trade opportunities for Kenya’s businesses. This has resulted into the following

KENYA’S EFFORTS IN PROMOTING REGIONAL TRADE AND INTEGRATION

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achievements; launch of a single tourist visa for Kenya, Uganda and Rwanda in order to boost tourism in the region, establishment of one-stop border posts at major border points, elimination of work permits’ fees for ease of movement for workers from the region, all with the aim of promoting regional integration within EAC. This has eventually led to increase in exports by 2% from Kshs. 141.64 billion to Kshs. 143.85 billion between 2013 and 2015. In COMESA region exports grew by 9% from Kshs. 163.67 billion to Kshs. 179.07 billion in the same period.

To further strengthen integration process within the EAC region, H.E the President during his inauguration on 28th November, 2017 pronounced Kenya’s committment to full realization of the right of establishment under the EAC framework enabling EAC citizens to transact business in Kenya with their national ID in accordance with Kenyan laws.

Kenya is also a key player in Africa’s integration agenda through EAC-COMESA-SADC Tripartite Free Trade Area (TFTA) and Continetal Free Trade Area. The Ministry has been coordinating Kenya’s participation in regional trade negotiations which will result in the establishment of the TFTA.The main objective of the TFTA is to establish a larger market, with a single economic space, to among others, attract more investment and large scale production, and also overcome the challenges of multiple membership. The Tripartite will result in a huge expanded market consisting of 26 Member States, with a combined population of over 600 million people and a GDP of about $1trillion. So far, 21 member states have signed the TFTA agreement.

The negotiations of the TFTA protocols on rules of origin, movement of business persons, and product

tariffs are on going, while Trade Remedies and Dispute Settlement mechanism have been finalized.

The Ministry has also been spearheading the Continental Free Trade Area (CFTA) negotiations launched during the 25th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union (AU), held in Johannesburg, in June 2015. The main objective of the CFTA is to establish a comprehensive and mutually beneficial trade agreement among the 55 members of the African Union.

The CFTA seeks to establish a larger market with the aim of boosting intra-africa trade that currently stands at about 15% which is significantly lower than the levels of the intra-regional trade in other regions. In addition, it aims at creating large investment area to attract investments and at the same time resolve challenges hindering the intra-african trade, such as Non-Tariff Barriers emanating from technical requirements, sanitary and phytosanitary standards, rules of origin, customs issues and multiple memberships. The intra-africa trade is expected to double by 2022 while the population would reach 2 billion people and a combined GDP of about US$ 3.4 trillion by 2050. All this will offer substantial economic and social gains to Africa.

Kenya will continue to reorient its foreign policy to enhance regional integration and Intra-African trade as a cornerstone for Africa’s development and economic prosperity. The pooling of economies and markets together through regional integration will provide a sufficiently wide economic and market space to make economies of scale possible for African industries and allow Africa to play its rightful role in the global market. §

Kenya Team attending Continental Free Trade Area (CFTA) negotiations in Abuja, Nigeria

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As part of deepening Kenya-UAE bilateral relations, the Ministers of Foreign Affairs of the two

countries, Amb Amina Mohamed and her counterpart from the UAE, His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan met at the sidelines of the 72nd Session United Nations General Assembly in New York where they signed a Memorandum of Understanding on Political Consultations.

KENYA, UAE ENHANCE RELATIONS

CS Amina Mohamed sign MOU with her UAE Counterpart Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan

The MOU aims at ensuring that regular consultations are held on issues of mutual interests with meetings being held in Nairobi and Abu-Dhabi alternately.

UAE is one of the top five sources of Kenya imports and a leading source of FDI into Kenya. §

UAE is Kenya’s 5th largest export destination & 4th largest import source

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Cabinet Secretary for Foreign Affairs Amb. Amina Mohamed has urged the international community

to join hands and strengthen cooperation in combating forced labour, modern slavery and human trafficking.

Amb. Amina Mohamed was speaking during a meeting on “Call to Action to end forced labour, modern slavery and human trafficking”, hosted by the UK Prime Minister, Ms. Theresa May on the sidelines of the 72nd United Nations General Assembly in New York in September, 2017.

The Cabinet Secretary regretted that despite national and international commitments, forced labour, modern slavery & human trafficking have continued well into the 21st century. The United Nations estimates that more than 2.4 million people are currently being exploited as victims of human trafficking.

The meeting was held within the framework of the United Nations Global Plan of Action to Combat Trafficking in Persons which was adopted by the UN General Assembly in 2010. The Plan calls for integrating the fight against human trafficking into the United Nations’ broader programmes to boost development and strengthen security around the world. The Plan serves as a clarion call to Member States, international

INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY URGED TO COMBAT HUMAN TRAFFICKING

organizations and civil society groups on the need to take immediate steps to combat human trafficking.

The Cabinet Secretary said individual country efforts are not sufficient adding that ending forced labour, modern slavery and human trafficking requires coordinated and concerted global cooperation.

She further noted that Kenya was not exempt from the menace of human trafficking saying Kenya is a country of origin, transit and destination in human trafficking. To contain this challenge, Kenya enacted the Counter Trafficking in Persons Act in 2010. The Act domesticated the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organised Crime, including its protocol to prevent, suppress and punish trafficking in persons, especially women and children.

Despite these efforts, the war on trafficking is undermined by inadequate funding, lack of data on victims of trafficking, low awareness by the public on human trafficking, and family dynamics in aiding trafficking of persons.

Working together to address these challenges will go a long way in mitigating and eventually eradicating this menace. §

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In the quest to strengthen Kenya’s diplomatic engagement globally, Foreign Affairs Cabinet

Secretary, Amb. Amina Mohamed on the side-lines of the 72nd Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York held bilateral consultations with her Lithuanian counterpart Mr. Linas Linkevicius.

The consultations delved on the need to revitalize and deepen the existing bilateral relations to create opportunities for cooperation. To accentuate this cooperation, a Memorandum of Understanding on Political Consultations between the two countries was signed. The consultations will be held at the level of

KENYA, LITHUANIA DEEPEN COOPERATION

CS Amina Mohamed with Lithuanian Minister of Foreign Affairs Mr Linas Linkevicius

senior officials of the foreign ministries of the two countries.

The bilateral agreement provides a mechanism for holding regular and active consultations, with the aim of exchanging views on all aspects of the bilateral relations, including regional and international issues of mutual interest.

The meeting also discussed other possible areas of cooperation such as; energy, higher education, life science, and information communication technology. §

Kenya, Lithuania to hold consultations at the level of senior officials

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The Gulf countries continue to remain of national strategic interest to Kenya due to a large number

of Kenyan migrant who work either as professionals or semi-skilled in various cities of Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Doha, Riyadh and Kuwait amongst others.

It is estimated that there are currently over 100,000 Kenyans working in the Gulf who are part of the larger Kenyan Diaspora community that remit over US$ 1.5 billion annually to their families and relatives in Kenya.

In an effort to streamline the process of recruitment of semi-skilled and domestic workers from Kenya destined to various Gulf region countries, the Government of Kenya has signed bilateral labour agreements with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the State of Qatar. Negotiations are also underway with the United Arab Emirates and the State of Kuwait.

As part of the process of implementing the bilateral labour agreements, a joint technical committee comprising of officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the State Department of Labour met with its Saudi Arabia counterpart on November 4-5, 2017 in Riyadh.

The Kenyan delegation was led by Mr. Washington Oloo, Ag. Director, Diaspora and Consular Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs while the Saudi Arabia delegation

was led by Dr. Abdulaziz Alamr, Undersecretary for International Affairs, Ministry of Labour and Social Development. The meeting discussed and agreed on issues pertaining to the Agreement that include the recruitment process of domestic workers, pre-departure training, visa requirements, and training Government officers on the online MUSANED labour recruitment system.

In an effort to consolidate the gains from the bilateral

KENYA STREAMLINES LABOUR EXPORT TO THE GULF

Exchange of Agreed Minutes of the Kenya - Qatar Joint Technical Commitee on Bilateral Labour Agreement

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labour agreements, the members from the Kenya Joint Technical Committee also met their Qatari counterparts on November 27 - 28, 2017 in Doha. During the meeting, Qatar committed to increase the number of visas for Kenyan workers, as well as partnership in the development of pre–departure training curriculum for domestic workers.

As part of the Government’s commitment to enhance welfare of Kenya migrant workers in the Gulf region, labour attaches have been posted to Kenya missions in Abu Dhabi, Doha, and Riyadh.

During their visits to Riyadh and Doha, the Kenya delegation met and held consultations with representatives of Kenyan Diaspora associations in both countries. They deliberated on various challenges affecting Kenyans in the region and the measures being undertaken by the Government of Kenya in collaboration with the host countries to address them.

The representatives of the Diaspora associations were advised to encourage their members to look for opportunities beyond formal employment by setting up businesses in those countries and forming SACCOS to increase savings which they could use to invest back home. They were further urged to respect the laws of the host countries and register with the respective Kenya Embassies. §

Members of the Kenya - Qatar Joint Technical Commitee on Bilateral Labour Agreement

100,000

number of Kenyans estimated to be working in the Gulf

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Kenya and Tanzania share long standing history of brotherly relations dating back to the era of

independence. The two countries trade relations are conducted under the framework of the East African Community and Bilateral relations. Tanzania is Kenya’s second largest trading partner in the East Africa Community while Kenya is the largest trading partner for Tanzania.

For the period 2016, trade data from Kenya Bureau of Statistics indicates that Kenya exported to Tanzania goods worth Kshs. 34.8 billion and imported goods valued at Kshs. 12.8 billion.

In terms of investments, Kenya is the fourth largest source of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in Tanzania after the United Kingdom, China and India. Kenya’s overall investment portfolio is estimated at over US$ 1,425.56 million. There are approximately four hundred and thirty (430) Kenyan investments in Tanzania which created over 48,942 jobs in the country.

In an effort to enhance trade and investment, Kenya and Tanzania held a bilateral meeting in September 2017, in Dar es Salaam where various trade and investment matters were discussed. This was a follow-up meeting to earlier bilateral discussions between Kenya’s Foreign Affairs Cabinet Secretary, Amb. Amina Mohamed and her Tanzanian counterpart Hon. Augustine Mahiga.

KENYA, TANZANIA DISCUSS TRADE RELATIONS

Among the issues discussed in the high-level meeting include exports of Kenyan milk and milk products to Tanzania and imports of wheat and LPG gas from Tanzania to Kenya. §

CS Amina Mohamed with her counterpart Amb Augustine Mahiga after a bilateral discussion

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The United Nations Complex in Nairobi is set for refurbishment following the completion of

a feasibility study and initial scope review including structural seismic and detailed space usage studies on uplifting of blocks A-J approved by the UN General Assembly in 2015. The office blocks A-J were constructed as semi-fabricated buildings intended only for temporary accommodation in late 1970s on a 140 acre land in Gigiri donated by the Government of Kenya.

The refurbishment is expected to be carried out between 2018-2024 at a cost of USD 69.9 million. This will give the UN facility in Nairobi a new outlook thereby providing conducive office environment

PLANS UNDERWAY TO REFURBISH UNITED NATIONS OFFICE IN NAIROBI

which is compliant with international regulations and standards.

Completion of the project will be a big boost to Kenya since the UN complex currently provides administrative and other support services to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the United Nations Human Settlement Programme (UN-Habitat), headquartered in the country. The project further reinforces Nairobi’s position as a diplomatic hub and venue for international conferences and meetings.

The Government of Kenya remains committed to facilitate the work of United Nations in line with the existing provisions of the Host Country Agreement. §

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Kenya Embassy in Bujumbura held its fourth Kenya Trade, Investment and Cultural Expo aimed at

deepening bilateral relations with Burundi in line with Kenya Foreign policy Economic Diplomacy Pillar objectives. The event took place from September 15 - 23, 2017, under the theme “Strengthening Bilateral Cooperation and Regional Integration.” The Expo attracted a total of 58 exhibitors drawn from both private and public-sector institutions from Kenya and Burundi.

The Expo provided an opportunity for Kenyan and Burundian companies to showcase their products. The

EMBASSY HOSTS 4TH EDITION OF KENYA TRADE, INVESTMENT & CULTURAL EXPO

H.E. Pierre Nkurunziza, President of the Republic of Burundi signing visitors’ book at the Kenya Embassy Pavilion. He was flanked by Amb. Ken Vitisia and Embassy and Ministry officials

exhibitors utilised the Expo to launch and test-market new products, seek new contacts and business leads and promote cultural exchanges between the two countries.

The Expo was officially opened by H.E. Gaston Sindimwo, the First Vice President of Burundi accompanied by the Minister for Trade, Industry and Tourism, and the Minister in charge of the East African Affairs of Burundi. The occasion was also graced by resident Ambassadors of China, United States, South Africa, Nigeria and the Representative of the European Union Delegation among others. §

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Kenya has urged Thai investors and entrepreneurs to take advantage of investment opportunities in

Kenya. The call was made by Amb. Christopher Chika, Director, Asia and Australasia, Ministry of Foreign Affairs during the Trade and Investment Symposium, Exhibition and Cultural Show in Bangkok, Thailand on 17th and 18th July, 2017.

The event was held during the Africa Week hosted by the Kingdom of Thailand which coincided with the commemoration of 50 years of Kenya-Thailand relations.

Amb. Chika highlighted major investments projects and opportunities in Kenya. He urged them to visit Kenya and take advantage of the conducive business environment.

Mr. Krerkpan Roekchamnog, Director General, South Asia, Middle East and Africa Affairs, Ministry

KENYA WOOS THAI INVESTORS of Foreign Affairs of Thailand was the chief guest at the symposium and was accompanied by the Deputy Director General, Department of International Trade Promotion, Ministry of Commerce of Thailand. Also in attendance were Heads of Mission from Egypt, Morocco, Ethiopia, Nigeria, South Africa, Sudan and Libya.

Kenya exhibited promotional materials on investment opportunities, tourism, coffee, nuts and Kenyan artefacts. Kenya Airways was among the exhibitors present. §

1967Year Kenya & Thailand established diplomatic relations

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Globalisation has led to interdependence of economies particularly since the end of the Cold

War, leading to a shift in the focus and priorities in engagements and relations among nations. Consequently, nations are increasingly using economic diplomacy to advance their economic interests in the international arena. Kenya, like all other nations has stepped up her economic diplomacy geared towards securing and strengthening competitiveness in international trade, stimulating inflow of investments and tourism among other interests.

In 2010, the governance structure of Kenya significantly changed following the promulgation of the Constitution of Kenya which created two levels of Government; the National Government and County Governments with clearly spelt out functions. The Constitution mandated the National Government with the responsibility of coordinating Foreign Affairs, Foreign Policy and International Trade. The Fourth Schedule of the Constitution envisioned the three functions to be managed, administered and coordinated from a central point to ensure coherence and reduce duplication of efforts in the discharge of government functions.

The mandate of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is to project, promote and protect Kenya’s national interests abroad. These interests include; economic, trade, security, culture, environment and natural resources among others. Being the primary interface between

ROLE OF MINISTRY IN ECONOMIC DIPLOMACY

Kenya and the rest of the world, the Ministry plays an important role in the pursuit of the country’s national interests globally particularly securing trade and investment opportunities.

In pursuing this mandate, the Ministry remains a key player in the promotion of sub-regional and regional integration and cooperation emphasizing on intra-Africa trade as the cornerstone for Africa’s socio-economic development.

To ensure a well guided and effective engagement with the rest of the world, Kenya published its Foreign Policy in 2014. The policy identifies five interlinked diplomacy pillars which include economic, peace, environmental, cultural and Diaspora. These pillars have specific objectives to be pursued to secure the country’s interests globally.

The economic pillar objectives include; increase capital flows to Kenya and EAC region, support export promotion and investment by Kenyan enterprises within the region and beyond, expand access to traditional markets and explore new and emerging markets for Kenya’s products, enhance technological advancement by exploring new sources of affordable and appropriate technology and support the exploration of alternative sources of traditional and renewable energy, strengthen regional economic communities and organizations to serve as competitive spring boards to emerging and

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Amb. Jean Kimani with Embassy and Ministry staff and exhibitors at Kenya Stand, Botswana Consumer Fair

global markets and promote fair trade and equitable bilateral, regional and multilateral trade agreements. The Ministry has continued to work with other Ministries, Departments, Agencies and stakeholders to deliver on these objectives. Our diplomatic footprint comprising 56 Missions across the world has been and will continue to be a major strength in pursuing the country’s interests.

Through economic diplomacy, the Ministry has realized a number of achievements which include conclusion and signing of Bilateral Trade Agreements/MOUs with a number of governments globally; coordination of cooperation fora, negotiation of economic cooperation frameworks, and holding of trade and investment fairs/business fora. These achievements have resulted into; the easing of factors of production, elimination of trade barriers, boosting of the FDI flows (foreign direct investments to Kenya have increased significantly since 2013, by 367% from USD 514 million in 2013 to USD 2.4 billion in 2016), protection of citizens investments, promotion of fair competition and trade facilitation activities.

Given its crucial role in economic cooperation and international trade, the Ministry will remain committed to discharging its mandate in order to continue contributing positively to the development and overall prosperity of the country. §

USD 2.4BForeign Direct Investments to Kenya (367% increase from 2013)

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On November 7, 2017, Kericho Gold teas made an impressive attraction at the “Hospitality Qatar

2017”, an annual exhibition held in Doha to showcase hospitality services, foods and beverages which normally attracts regional and International Hotels, Restaurants and franchise holders. During the exhibition, Gold Crown Beverages company showcased its Kericho Gold green and black teas which are blended and packaged at its Mombasa-based factory from fine teas in Kenya and carefully selected by expert tea tasters for the richness of their taste, flavour and aroma.

The performance by the Kericho Gold teas was a great win for Kenya in the Middle East market mostly dominated by the Liptons and other teas from India, China and Sri Lanka . Kericho Gold black and green tea were introduced in Qatar early 2017 and are now available in leading supermarkets.

Tea is one among the many Kenyan products now in the Qatar market. This is one other testament of the fruits of the agrressive Economic and Commercial Diplomacy undertaken by President Uhuru Kenyatta to harness the trade opportunities in the Middle East. In 2014, the President visited Doha, during which he witnessed the signing of several Cooperation agreements between Kenya and Qatar including the Agreement on Economic, Commercial and Technical Cooperation ; Agreement on Avoidance of Double Taxation and the Agreement on Reciprocal Promotion and Protection of

KENYAN TEA SHINES IN QATAR EXHIBITION

Investments. A reciprocal visit by His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani was made in April 2017 to further deepen the relationship between Kenya and Qatar.

Between 2014 and 2015 Kenya’s exports to Qatar grew by 286%. With the growing warm relations between the two countries and the rising numbers of Kenyan workers in Qatar, Kenyan exports to Qatar are set to rise further. §

A typical tea farm in Kenya

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The Cabinet Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Amb. Amina Mohamed led a high-powered delegation to

the 11th WTO Ministerial Conference (MC11) held in Buenos Aires, Argentina from December 10 - 13, 2017. The Conference builds on the achievements of the 10th Ministerial Conference (MC10), which was held in Nairobi in December, 2015.

The Ministerial meeting in Buenos Aires started in earnest on 10th December 2017, with a colourful opening ceremony, which was graced by the presidents of Argentina, Paraguay, Chile and Brazil. This was

AMBASSADOR AMINA MOHAMED LEADS KENYAN DELEGATION TO WTO MC11

hailed as a huge display of political commitment to the multilateral trading system.

The discussions at the MC11 were therefore a follow-up to the MC10 decisions, as well as a culmination of the technical negotiations, on a wide range of trade related issues, that continued at the WTO headquarters in Geneva, after the conclusion of MC10.

During the MC10, considerable progress was made when the Ministerial Conference took a decision on the elimination of export subsidies. This was aimed

CS Amina Mohamed, Chairperson of MC10 with Susanna Malcorra, Chairperson of MC11 during WTO Ministerial Conference in Buenos Aires. Looking on is Amb. Stephen Karau.

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at providing a level playing field in the international market for the benefit of exporters.

The issues discussed at the MC11 included: Agriculture (domestic support/domestic subsidies; market access; export competition; cotton subsidies; public stockholding for food security; and special safeguard mechanism); trade in services (market access in services; domestic regulation); fisheries subsidies; E-commerce; and the integration of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise (MSMEs) in international trade.

On Agriculture negotiations, Amb. Mohamed was mandated to drive the agriculture reform agenda as facilitator and negotiator. The reform process in agriculture is a priority for many developing Member States. Members are seeking to ensure sustained efforts in addressing, on an incremental basis, distortions in agricultural production and trade.

Agriculture negotiations are perhaps the most difficult at the WTO, in view of the significance of the sector to the livelihoods of most Member States. Issues such as domestic support, market access and export competition have continued to dominate agriculture negotiations since the beginning of the multilateral trading system. During the Conference, Amb. Mohamed was invited to share a platform with the President of Argentina, H.E. Mauricio Macri, at the MC11 Business Forum where she gave a keynote address. She acknowledged the pivotal role played by Micro – Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). Amb. Mohamed noted that while the desire in Africa was to reap maximum benefits from the inclusion of MSMEs into the global value chains, most MSMEs had not been able to leverage the enormous opportunities presented by the global value chains that would expose them to a large customer base as well as opportunities to learn from large firms.

However, at the conclusion of the conference, following intensive three-day negotiations, the ministers were able to endorse only limited outcomes. It was difficult to reach consensus on most issues on the agenda and therefore negotiations on these issues will have to continue in Geneva.

The highlight of the conference was Kenya’s unwavering support of South Sudan’s quest to join the WTO. Amb. Amina Mohamed, in her opening statement informed that Kenya had stood by South Sudan since her struggle for independence and would continue to support her quest for political and economic development. Consequently the Ministerial Conference agreed to form a working party committee for South Sudan, marking the beginning of the country’s accession process. §

This year Kenya marked 54 years since attaining independence from Britain on December 12,

1963. It is a day when Kenyans and friends remember and honour all those who paid the ultimate sacrifice for the liberation of our country.

The celebrations provided a time to reflect on gains made over this time, to attaining the young democratic and progressive status under a leadership committed to a united fully democratic country.

Kenya Missions abroad popped up Champaign to mark the day; In High Commission in London (http://kenyahighcom.org.uk/kenyans-in-the-united-kingdom-celebrate-the-54th-jamhuri-day-in-london/), Pretoria (https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=1754426054588178&id=614031195294342), Canberra, Islamabad, Mumbai, Algiers (https://www.facebook.com/Lemoshira/posts/10215240219861963), Khartoum, Gaborone, Lusaka, Tehran, Harare and Madrid, Kenyans and Kenya friends gathered to mark the important day.

This auspicious event came after the conclusion of a protracted electioneering period. Kenya in three months underwent two presidential elections, two declarations of President-Elect, two Supreme Court Petitions and finally one inauguration.

The experiences of the highly contested political process, has no doubt made Kenyans more resilient, and rallied them to the common aspirations enshrined in the Constitution. Kenya’s democratic credentials and respect of the rule are now clearly enshrined as a example to emulate in Africa and beyond. These are tenets of a modern and progressive human society the people cherish. Through the challenges experienced during the political processes, lessons to strengthen institutions of governance and to enhance national cohesion and unity were learnt.

Kenya continues to maintain a stable macroeconomic environment with single-digit inflation backed by a robust entrepreneurship and high-tech skills in information technology, improved business environment and latest state-of-the-art infrastructural, the foundation for economic take-off is well set.

Kenya takes exceptional pride in being an African country. Our Foreign Policy orientation continues to pave ways to strengthen role and contribution to the realisation of the African Agenda 2063. In his Inauguration Speech on November 28, 2017, President Uhuru Kenyatta announced a major policy initiative that seek to entrench unwavering commitment to Africa. Africans will henceforth receive entry visa on arrival. This will be granted without demand for reciprocity, are part of Kenya’s deliberate efforts to facilitate the movement of peoples and goods across borders. §

KENYA MARKS 54TH JAMHURI DAY CELEBRATION

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PICTORIAL

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1. PS Monica Juma with Mr. Dmitry G. Kuptel, Belarus Ambassador accredited to Kenya and his deputy Mr. Sergei Makarevich after bilateral discussions.

2. President Uhuru Kenyatta addresses delegates attending 3rd UNEA conference in Nairobi.

3. Amb Jean Kamau leads Jamhuri Day Celebrations, Kenya High Commission, Pretoria, South Africa.

4. Amb Lazarus Amayo leads Jamhuri Day Celebrations, Kenya High Commission, London, UK

5. CS Amina Mohamed and Dr Daniel Castillo, Uruguay Ambassador accredited to Kenya, sign agreements for Cooperation and Political Consultation.

6. Dr. Abdelkadir Hilal joins Amb Arown Suge and other Kenyans in the Sudan to celebrate Jamhuri Day Celebrations in Khartoum.

7. Amb Bramwell Kisuya with a guest during Jamhuri Day Celebrations, Kenya Embassy, Madrid, Spain

8. Botswana Foreign Minister Pelonomi Venson-Moitoi, Amb Jean Kimani and other guests during Jamuhuri Day Celebrations, Kenya High Commission, Gaborone, Botswana

9. President Uhuru Kenyatta receives newly posted envoys to Kenya

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10. Amb Rukia Sabow at Jamhuri Day Celebrations, Kenya Embassy, Tehran, Iran11. Amb Sophie Kombe leads Jamuhuri Day Celebrations,

Kenya High Commission, Lusaka, Zambia12. PS Monica Juma presents four Kenyans freed from

South Sudan Jail to their families13. Amb Julius Bitok leads Jamhuri Day Celebrations, Kenya

High Commission, Islamabad, Pakistan14. Tanzanian Foreign Minister Amb Augustine Mahiga and Kenyan Amb Boniface

Muhia lead Jamhuri Day Celebrations, Kenya High Commission, Dar-es-Salaam 15. Amb Isaiah Kabira leads Jamhuri Day Celebrations,

Kenya High Commission, Canberra, Australia16. Kenya Ambassadors from various missions across the world

pose for a photo with CS Amina Mohamed17. Amb Kiema Kilonzo leads Jamhuri Day Celebrations,

Kenya Embassy, Ankara, Turkey18. Amb Lucas Tumbo leads Jamhuri Day Celebrations,

Kenya Embassy Mogadishu, Somalia19. H.E. Mohamed Bin Yusuf Bin Qasim Alzarafi, joins Amb Sheikh Dor

and other Kenyans in celebrating Jamhuri Day in Muscat, Oman.20. CS Amina Mohamed leads Kenyan delegation to MC11 and Kenyans in

Latin America in marking Jamhuri Day in Buenos Aires, Argentina

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STRENGTHENING KENYA’S DEMOCRATIC CREDENTIALS

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REPUBLIC OF KENYA

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P.O. Box 30551-GPO00100, Nairobi /Kenya Tel: +254 20 3316967, +254 20 3318888

Mobile: +254 702 268 655Email: info@mfa.go.ke or mfapress@mfa.go.ke

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