Volume 1 Issue 4

THE OFFICIAL BULLETIN OF THE MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

FEBRUARY- MAY 2018 VOLUME 1 ISSUE 4

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CHAIRMAN Joseph Masila

EDITOR Edwin Limo

MEMBERS 1. Severine Luyali 2. Waithira Njuguna 3. Andrew Mujivane 4. Anastacia Osundwa 5. Kawira Githinji EDITOR’S NOTE 6. Festus Wangwe 7. Martin Owuor t was ancient philosopher, Heraclitus who 8. Jane Kariuki Isaid, and truly so, that the only constant 9. Andrew Kuria thing in life is change. We are constantly changing at our individual levels, family, communally and also at the corporate levels. The challenge, therefore, is to always prepare for change and to manage it at every turn.

THE OFFICIAL BULLETIN OF THE MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS KENYA CoverFEBRUARY- MAY 2018 Photo VOLUME 1 ISSUE 4 The Ministry has undergone tremendous changes this past quarter in every aspect of the word. The management of the Ministry at the top underwent a complete change and now has a leadership that promises to take it to the next level of achievement in Kenya Foreign Policy implementation. In this issue of the Bulletin, the top management enumerates individual and corporate vision on how they see the future unfolding in matters Foreign Policy. A new administrative layer of Chief Administrative Secretary (CAS) that plays e the role of the principal assistant to the Cabinet Secretary was introduced. This em office will add the impetus to Kenya’s Foreign Policy implementation and act as oe s a fulcrum with various stakeholders, both at the national and global arena. The mandate of the Ministry has once again been expanded to include Amb Monica Juma, Hon. Ababu International Trade. This State department headed by a Principal Secretary will Namwamba, Amb Macharia Kamau and Dr. Chris Kiptoo oversee trade facilitation and negotiations and its expansion across the globe and more importantly, the Africa centric approach envisioned by the current administration. The leadership of President is very clear on the focus of the Diplomacy Bulletin is a next five years – namely the Big Four Strategy. This will be achieved by all quarterly publication of the government ministries, department and agencies working in a seamless and Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade. concerted manner. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade will play a central role in the delivery of the Big Four Strategy through enhanced Any part of this publication diplomatic engagement and expansion of its diplomatic foot print and trade may be reproduced, stored in across the globe. retrieval system or transmitted in any form provided full acknowledgment to the The Ministry is refocusing to ensure all its activities are targeted at this goal. Ministry of Foreign Affairs and The management of state visits – inbound and outbound – are now specifically International Trade as source geared towards realisation of this national objective. The state visits already is given. undertaken have left no doubt as to the objectives and direction His Excellency While every effort is made to the President wants taken. The Ministry’s top management has meanwhile been ensure accuracy of information able to interact with all ambassadors, out of Nairobi, to inform on this focus and contained in this Bulletin, the how Kenya can work with their capitals to leverage in their unique comparative Ministry accept no responsibility advantages to deliver on the Big Four. for any loss, financial or otherwise, sustained by any The launching of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) in Kigali in person using this publication March promises to provide one of the Big Four pillars namely, Industrialisation, Any inquiries relating to the with the incentive for quick and prompt take off. content should be addressed to the editor. With a well-managed vision, clear targets and objectives, the next development level of our country is very much on site. This issue of the Diplomacy Bulletin brings you what the Ministry is planning to/or has done so far towards the Facebook: /ForeignOfficeKe Twitter: @ForeignOfficeKE achievement of the Big Four. Resources and all efforts are not being spared in Youtube: Foreign Office KE working towards achieving the big goal. Enjoy your reading. Email : [email protected] Website : www.mfa.go.ke Edwin Limo

3 CONTENTS Editor’s Note 3

Note from the Cabinet Secretary 6 Diplomacy Bulletin Amb Monica Juma, Dphil. CBS 6

FROM CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE SECRETARY’S DESK 8 TABLE OF FROM THE DESK OF PRINCIPAL SECRETARY FOREIGN AFFAIRS 9 CONTENTS AMB. MACHARIA KAMAU 9

FROM THE DESK OF PRINCIPAL SECRETARY, INTERNATIONAL TRADE 10

DR. CHRIS KIPTOO 10

KENYA – US RELATIONS ENHANCED 12

KENYA ENGAGES CUBA ON THE ‘BIG-FOUR’ AGENDA 13 3Editor’s Note 6Note from the From8 Chief Cabinet Secretary Administrative PRESIDENT KENYATTA CALLS FOR ACP INTEGRATION 14 Secretary’s desk IGAD HOLDS CONSULTATIONS ON FREE MOVEMENT OF PERSONS 15

MINISTRY FOSTERS ENGAGEMENT WITH DIPLOMATIC CORPS 16

KENYA-MOZAMBIQUE RECONNECT 18

HUNGARIAN SCHOLARSHIPS 19 13Kenya engages 14President Kenyatta IGAD15 holds COSTA RICA OPENS FIRST EMBASSY IN AFRICA 20 Cuba on the ‘Big- calls for ACP consultations on four’ agenda integration free movement of SWITZERLAND INAUGURATES NEW CHANCERY IN NAIROBI 21 persons

KENYA SIGNS HISTORIC TRADE AGREEMENT 22

KENYA MAKES INROADS TO CENTRAL EUROPE 24

KENYA JOINS WORLD COMMONWEALTH LEADERS IN LONDON 25 EAC MEMBER STATES FORGE CLOSER TIES 26 20Costa Rica opens 21Switzerland Kenya22 signs historic first embassy in inaugurates new trade agreement KENYA HANDS OVER APRM CHAIRMANSHIP 27 Africa chancery in Nairobi

KENYA COMMITS TO AFRICA’S OPEN SKIES 28

PICTORIAL 29

CONTRIBUTORS 31

27Kenya hands 28Kenya commits to Pictorial29 over APRM Africa’s Open Skies Chairmanship

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9From the desk of 10From the desk of 12Kenya – US Principal Secretary Principal Secretary, relations enhanced Foreign Affairs International Trade

16Ministry fosters 18Kenya - 19Hungarian engagement with Mozambique scholarships Diplomatic Corps reconnect

24Kenya makes 25Kenya joins World 26EAC member states inroads to Central Commonwealth forge closer ties Europe Leaders in London

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NOTE FROM THE CABINET SECRETARY AMB MONICA JUMA, DPHIL. CBS

t is an honour and a privilege to serve the people of message for Kenya, and Africa determining its trajectory, IKenya, as the Cabinet Secretary for Foreign Affairs based on our interests. and International Trade. I thank H.E. the President, Africa has begun to write own story, a clear illustration of Hon. Uhuru Kenyatta for entrusting me to spearhead this was the historic signing of the African Continental his Foreign Policy. Together with me, H.E. the President Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), a framework that also appointed Hon. Ababu Namwamba as the Chief brings together member states, with Administrative Secretary and Amb. Macharia Kamau, the goal of creating a single market, free movement Principal Secretary for Foreign Affairs. of people and goods. Africa seeks to create structures that will grow its economic space, ensure financial These appointments bring together a cohort inclusion, accelerate innovation, and establish Africa as of professional expertise, experience, skills and an influential partner at the world stage. competencies, that I believe will steer our foreign policy agenda to greater heights. This team is supported by a In his words during the Assembly in Kigali, H.E. the professional team of senior diplomats and civil servants President said, “The AfCFTA offers us a competitive whose efforts will guarantee service delivery to all our edge. It creates a united economic block that will boost stakeholders. our trade, help create an African value chain, accelerate growth of our small and medium enterprises and power Foreign Policy direction our industrialisation” Our Foreign Policy has a clear orientation: Pan African build from the sub-region, continental, global south Along with the declaration of an African focused foreign and the world. Under my watch, the Ministry of policy, H.E. the President also identified four key areas Foreign Affairs will focus squarely on projecting and that will be his second terms administration’s priority: propelling our national interests, ensuring increased accelerating industrialisation; food security; universal competitiveness of Kenya globally and growing and healthcare and affordable housing. The agenda famously moving our trade volumes. We shall continue to offer called the Big Four will be implemented alongside areas and demonstrate a leadership with a clear agenda and outlined in our Foreign Policy.

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Ministry’s Role Four agenda, as well as the Africa-centric policy. Whose The Ministry must continue to be a Foreign Policy primary role is to promote regional integration. machinery that understands the wealth that exists in Kenya and Africa, in terms of resources and their Staff Matters potential for beneficial exploitation. Similarly, we It is a rare honour to serve as both the Principal must remain steadfast, in our role as protectors and Secretary and the Cabinet Secretary in the same conservators of these valuable resources. To achieve Ministry. I am privileged that I am coming into an this, we will need to scale up our engagement with environment that I have had the chance to study and countries and organisations that will partner with us learn. One of the greatest assets of the Ministry is its to achieve the Big Four agenda. In addition, we need to wealth of highly skilled and talented professionals. It is explore new partners and new engagement strategies. incumbent of the leadership of the Ministry to ensure In the conduct of our mandate. a properly coordinated career management system is in place to allow the staff to grow professionally. As I had The Ministry’s principle role remains to guide and pledged in our first “Kamkunji”, together with the top facilitate implementing Ministries, Departments and leadership soon after my appointment we are working Agencies (MDAs). Its work must look into certain towards establishing a system that is predictable and questions, such as: who has achieved these? How have applied fairly across all cadres. they done it? Are we in similar economic circumstances? How long did it take? We must then tailor-make it Additionally, one of the core elements in maintaining a to suit us. We can no longer accept being dressed in vibrant and responsive workforce is to continually train other people’s outfits. Therefore, our information officers. Training will guarantee that our diplomats must be clear, succinct and must respond to the Big match the demands of the 21st Century’s complex political, social and economic environment. We will therefore pay close attention to the work programme of the Foreign Service Academy – which must be our institution of choice for evolving the Kenyan diplomat. The training programmes and curricula will encompass all cadres, and cover all topics, with our strategic thrust “ We must pointing at security, economics and negotiating skills. Further to growing a desired pool of expertise, employee wellness and welfare are a key aspect in productivity and always keep success. It is my intention to build a program that will inculcate a culture of health and wellbeing. Towards this end, have started with partnering with Mater in mind, that Hospital to offer basic check-ups and we will gradually build on this to ensure a robust, motivated and healthy working for the workforce. We must always keep in mind, that working for the Ministry means representing forty five (45) Million plus Kenyans. I would therefore like to leave the Ministry Ministry means having cultivated a diplomatic corps that is dynamic, well versed and able to clearly articulate, promote and representing protect the interests of Kenya in various forums. Additionally, it is my firm conviction to lead the Ministry in making significant contributions to the forty five (45) transformational Big Four agenda set and clearly articulated by H.E. the President. I therefore call upon all stakeholders to participate by sharing their views in million plus order that the Ministry may advance and achieve the transformative agenda that will facilitate achievement Kenyans” of not only the Big Four Agenda, but Vision 2030.

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FROM CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE SECRETARY’S DESK

n his wisdom, H.E. the President, in crafting his I will ensure that the Ministry’s image is enhanced in Isecond term government decided to introduce both hard infrastructure and human capacity. This will the position of Chief Administrative Secretary in all provide ambient environment and correct posturing ministries. Principally, this position is the second in that projects Kenya’s image correctly. To this end, I see command and meant to assist the Cabinet Secretaries my office playing a pivotal role in negotiations that have swiftly deliver on their mandates. an impact to our national interests.

It was a great honour and privilege to be appointed I will teamplay with by colleagues at the Ministry the first holder of this office in the Ministry of Foreign to highly project H.E. the President’s Africa-centric Affairs and International Trade by H.E. the President. I diplomacy that promotes Kenya’s relations and trade am happy to join a team of professionals at the Ministry with all African Union Member States. This will led by top diplomat, Amb Monica Juma as the Cabinet be done through supporting integration initiatives Secretary. at bilateral, regional (EAC, COMESA, IGAD) and continental level. My role and input to the great team is clear and well cut out. I will support the Cabinet Secretary in lobbying Finally, expect to see my office help enhance Kenya’s for additional resources to the Ministry to enable the diplomatic footprint globally in areas that Kenya can Ministry achieve its mandate within the Constitution, gain both competitive and comparative advantages Vision 2030 Blue Print, ‘Big-Four Agenda’, Jubilee in advancing our national interest. One of this areas Manifesto, the Foreign Policy and the Third Medium include presence in international organisations. I will Term Plan. actively advocate for placement of Kenyans in key international organisations to the highest level possible. I intend to use my professional adeptness and experience as a constitutional and international human rights attorney, to bring to fore matters of Foreign Policy and HON. ABABU NAMWAMBA, EGH remain custodian of public interest. Having been a legislator and defender of truth, justice, my new office will provide linkage to Parliament to address issues of the Ministry at both houses of Parliament.

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FROM THE DESK OF PRINCIPAL SECRETARY FOREIGN AFFAIRS AMB. MACHARIA KAMAU

ver the years, Kenya has been an important player constant adjustment of our approach to diplomacy and Oin the international arena and has provided international issues. The Ministry is keen to enhance leadership in many regional and global issues. The its global footprint through the establishment of country’s role in peace and security, environmental diplomatic representation in various parts of the world conservation, regional integration, international trade to align our diplomatic engagement with the changing and other global issues continues to be critical. In priorities and opportunities. This will include the opening of new Missions and General Consulates and driving this agenda, the Ministry will continue to be appointing of Honorary Consuls in strategic regions guided by the Kenya Foreign Policy anchored on the five of the world, as well as, reviewing of Kenya multiple pillars of peace and security, environmental, cultural, accreditations to ensure fair coverage of diplomatic economic and diaspora. representation and easy access by Kenyans and other stakeholders. For the Ministry to effectively drive the vision of H.E. the President, there is need to make it fit for purpose. The vision of a peaceful, prosperous and globally The physical infrastructure, as well as the human and competitive Kenya can only be achieved if the Ministry financial resources, must match our vision to be a is wired to be fit for purpose. The resources deployed, peaceful, prosperous and globally competitive country. both human and financial must be sufficient to drive As the Principal Secretary for Foreign Affairs, I see the ambitious agenda that Kenya has set to accomplish myself as a key cog whose role is to ensure that the regionally and at the global level. I commit to focus wheel that is the Ministry is efficient and effective in my energies on enhancing the Ministries capacity to delivering its mandate. As the accounting officer of the implement its mandate. Ministry, I will institute systems that will ensure that the human and financial resources entrusted to us are applied prudently, efficiently and effectively.

The country is operating in a dynamic environment with an ever-changing geo-political situation. These present opportunities and challenges which necessitate

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FROM THE DESK OF PRINCIPAL SECRETARY, INTERNATIONAL TRADE DR. CHRIS KIPTOO

Question: What is our Outlook on Q: What would you like to see going forward? International Trade? A: Going forward, I would like to see the National Trade Answer: The outlook for international trade is very Policy that was approved by the Cabinet in December promising. However, for the last six years (2011-2017), 2016 implemented in letter and spirit. There is a need we have been importing more goods than what we for a paradigm shift in the way we look at trade so that export. We have had a balance of trade deficit that has trade can meaningfully contribute to the growth of the been ballooning and needs to be checked. For instance, economy as provided for in Kenya’s Development Blue- in 2017 Kenya exported goods worth USD 6 billion Print, the , the Jubilee Government’s and imports were valued at USD 17 billion. This left a Manifesto and the ‘Big-Four’ Agenda. trade deficit of USD 11 billion which is unsustainable in the long run. Fortunately, most of the imports were Recently, the Government developed two internet-based capital goods for development especially in road & tools to provide information on trade in Kenya. These rail infrastructure and energy development which is are Kenya E-Trade Portal (www.kenyatradeportal.go.ke) expected to improve the competitiveness of the country and InfoTrade Portal in Kenya (www.infotradekenya. and eventually promote exports. The product export go.ke). The two have been synchronised to complement base and the market is narrow and there is an urgent each other in the provision of trade information on need for the export product and market diversification. Kenya. For the period 2011 – 2016, 20 top export products constituted 77% of the export products to a few markets The InfoTrade Portal is basically designed to provide in East Africa, Africa, United States of America and the Trade information in compliance with Article 1.1 European Union. and 1.2 of the World Trade Organisation Agreement on Trade Facilitation while the Kenya E-Trade Portal Q: What is your Vision for the Department? provides information beyond the InfoTrade Portal including sourcing from Kenya. Buyers from any A: My vision for the Department is that of a Centre country in the world can link with producers in Kenya of Excellence in promoting Kenya’s international trade for the supply of goods and services produced in Kenya. interests globally. I envision to achieve this by use of bilateral, regional and multilateral approaches and This is a useful tool for Kenya Missions abroad to encouraging economic cooperation. The development market Kenyan Goods and Services. It will eliminate the of domestic trade which has been devolved to the limitation of access to information on what is produced counties should as well be revamped as it is the bedrock in Kenya and who produces what and where the or nurseries for our exports. producers of goods and services are located including

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Movement of goods a sure bet on faster industrialisation in the counties. It is a revolutionary tool which we hope to enhance the engagement between the Missions and Soon we will be launching a National Export the business community in Kenya and buyers of Kenyan Development Strategy whose objective is to enable goods and services. The Missions will soon be trained Kenya to produce more goods for export and reduce and given passwords to access some of the restricted the current ballooning trade deficit. If it can help Kenya information. diversify her export base and basket and widen the Q: What are some of the challenges you present existing markets, it will significantly transform foresee in this position? Kenya’s export performance. Kenya has a Trade in Service Sector that is significantly contributing to the A: The Agenda for International Trade is huge. Due economy. I would like to see this sector contributing to its complexity, it requires a more critical focus and more in terms of exports to the region and beyond. collaborative approach. Trade is also technical, cross- Lastly, we lack WTO compliant trade defence cutting and multi-sectoral and requires an all government instruments in place. The 11th Parliament enacted approach and good coordination for success both at the Trade Remedies Act, 2017. This Act provides for national and international level. Some of the challenges the establishment of The Trade Remedies Agency I foresee is the inadequacy of resources to drive the which will ensure the protection of Kenya’s domestic Agenda; Secondly, coordination across government is industries from unfair international trade competition. likely to be a challenge as some institutions still have a I would like to see this Agency up and running so that silo mentality of approaching issues limiting informed manufacturing in the ‘Big Four’ agenda becomes a interventions. At the international level, some level of reality and resounding success. trade nationalism is emerging which may lead to the adoption of protectionist trade policies. Protectionist Q: What is your parting shot/conclusion? trade policies may be a challenge as they limit market access opportunities especially for a country like Kenya A: My parting shot is a call to teamwork. No one can which beliefs in fair open trade. succeed alone in Government. The contribution of every agency, every officer, citizens and development The process of domesticating international treaties to partners matters for Kenya to shine. anchor them in domestic laws has been enhanced and may not present any challenges in the future. I would like to see Kenya’s trade grow a notch higher, be modern, organised, vibrant and competitive in Q: How do you see your legacy-shaping your the 21st-century environment where technology will term in office? drive virtually every aspect of our life. This will bring to realisation the theme of our National Trade Policy: A: For legacy, I would like to see the laws and ‘Transforming Kenya into a Competitive Export-Led instruments outlined in the National Trade Policy and Efficient Domestic Economy.’ being in place and functional. For Trade both domestic and international to contribute meaningfully to the We have what it takes to succeed. The million dollar economic growth and development agenda of Kenya, question: Can we put together the jigsaw puzzle for there is need to ensure access to reasonably priced success? finances which may be provided by an Export-Import Bank and other appropriate trade and export financing mechanisms.

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KENYA – US RELATIONS ENHANCED

enya and the United States of America’s defining of State further reaffirmed the recent developments Khigh-level visits have underwritten the recent building up to the inaugural Kenya-US direct flights deepening of relations between the two countries. scheduled in October 2018. In a further exchange of During the meeting at the G7 Summit in Taormina, views with Secretary Tillerson, the President reaffirmed Italy in 2017, President Uhuru Kenyatta and President Kenya’s commitment to the values of democratic Donald Trump re-emphasized the cordial nature of the governance, constitutionalism, rule of law and human relationship and the objectives of their administrations. rights. He underscored the importance of respecting In December 2017, following the re-election of H.E. established institutions as the basis of entrenching Uhuru Kenyatta, the Trump administration sent Amb. democratic governance across the globe and reiterated Donald Yamamoto, Assistant Secretary of State for the commitment to respect the independence of African Affairs, to deliver a message of support. constitutional commissions and other constitutional arms of government as the bedrock of democratic governance.

President Kenyatta commended the Government of the United States of America for the existing robust partnership in security and military cooperation especially through the Security Governance Initiative (SGI) which has contributed immensely to building capacity for security personnel, administration of justice and management of borders. U.S. support for Kenya’s

CS Monica Juma, Secretary of State, Rex Tillerson with efforts in the fight against terrorism, radicalisation and ambassadors Robert Godec and Tom Amolo. countering violent extremism and other transnational crimes was lauded as a significant milestone in this In March 2018, Secretary of State, Rex Tillerson partnership. (Rex Tillerson has since been replaced as visited Kenya as part of his first official visit to Africa, Secretary of State) reaffirming the deep relationship that exists between Kenya and the U.S. President Uhuru Kenyatta held talks with the Secretary of State where he shared his focus on the ‘Big-Four’ Agenda aimed at transforming lives of Kenyans. He urged the U.S. Government to support the implementation of this Agenda. He further, appreciated the decision by Bechtel International to set up their African Headquarters in Nairobi and readiness to commence infrastructural projects in Kenya.

The Secretary of State called for increased U.S. investment in Kenya, as well as stronger trade and bilateral ties. Both the President and the Secretary CS Monica Juma recieves Secretary of State, Rex Tillerson on arrival at JKIA

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KENYA ENGAGES CUBA ON THE ‘BIG-FOUR’ AGENDA

resident Uhuru Kenyatta in March 2018, made Pa three-day State Visit to Cuba at the invitation Cuba has a well-developed health sector that has of President Raúl Castro Ruz. The visit sought to achieved great milestones in the discovery of vaccines strengthen relations between the two countries and against lung cancer, eradication of malaria and a thriving expand on areas of cooperation for mutual benefit of pharmaceutical sector. After signing of the MOU on the two peoples based on the historical relationship Health Cooperation in 2017, Kenya was specifically in Cuba to draw lessons from the Caribbean nation with Kenya and Africa traced to liberation movements, in areas of preventative and curative health. During and in particular, the struggle against colonialism and the visit, and to realise Kenya’s agenda on universal apartheid. health coverage, an agreement was reached to bring in one hundred (100) Cuban medical specialists, at least This was the first ever State Visit by a Kenyan Head two (2) per county, to work hand in hand with their of State to the Caribbean country since independence. Kenyan counterparts in rolling out a range of medical The visit was designed to contribute to the country’s interventions that will radically change how Kenya achievement of the “Big Four” agenda particularly in manages many life-threatening diseases. Kenya will send health, agriculture, blue economy, tourism and sports. fifty (50) doctors to Cuba for specialised training.

President Uhuru Kenyatta with Cuban President Raul Castro during a state visit to Cuba

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investments. As coastal countries, Kenya and Cuba Kenya is seeking to develop its pharmaceutical industry have enormous opportunities to optimally exploit the especially in vaccines for both humans and animals. water resources in the crucial areas such as fisheries, This is anticipated to improve the health of Kenyans aquaculture, shipping and maritime transport, tourism, and to build capacity to increase the number of medical renewable and non-renewable energy as well as blue specialists in orthopaedic surgery, oncology, neurology carbon. Kenya and Portugal will also co-chair the 2020 and trauma management in the country. Cooperation Oceans Conference to be held in Lisbon, Portugal. is being sought to cover prevention and treatment of malaria, hypertension, diabetes and hepatitis B. During the Visit, President Kenyatta paid homage to In addition, Kenya is keen to tap in Cuba’s well- the eminent African heroes featured in the Park of established sports medicine sector and build capacity African Heroes and unveiled a bust of Kenya’s founding towards enhancing sports development. Kenya will also President, the late Mzee . Kenya also benefit from Cuba’s well-documented tick vaccine that donated the “Turkana boy fossil” to the African Arts eliminates vectors in livestock. Museum in Havana in the spirit of enhancing cultural cooperation. With Cuba having excelled in the agricultural sector, Kenya is seeking to cooperate in veterinary vaccines The President’s State Visit culminated in the signing research, technology transfer in sugar production and of the following Agreements/MOUs to cement and production diversification, and exchange of experts. actualise the agreed areas of cooperation and enhance Furthermore, Kenya is keen to research on many seed bilateral relations: MOU in Cooperation in the Field of varieties to learn more on improving food security and Sports, MOU on Cooperation in the Field of Culture, boost Kenya’s capacity in food production. Kenya is Agreement on Visa Exemption, MOU between the expected to sign a comprehensive MOU that will allow Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry for replication of lessons learnt in critical fields of (KNCCI) and Chamber of Commerce of Cuba. quality seed production and disease control in livestock. On the Blue Economy, Kenya has invited Cuba to co- During the visit, the President officially opened the sponsor and participate at the highest level possible, Kenya Embassy in Havana on March 16, 2018, after its in the High-Level Conference on Sustainable Blue establishment in September 2016. The Embassy is the Economy scheduled to be hosted in Kenya in November first in the Caribbean region and is important not only 2018. The Conference will provide a platform to engage in terms of Africa’s heritage but also fostering people- on action-oriented strategies pertaining to a sustainable to-people interaction. blue economy that is people-centric with ocean driven PRESIDENT KENYATTA CALLS FOR ACP INTEGRATION

resident Kenyatta hosted the African, Caribbean on a regular basis. Pand Pacific (ACP) Ambassadors based in Cuba for a breakfast meeting during his visit to Cuba in March Citing the stalemate in Buenos Aires during the 2018. At the meeting, the President called for direct 11th World Trade Organisation (WTO) Ministerial engagement amongst ACP countries to achieve common Conference, the President stated that this was a historical aspirations. Despite the ACP countries having clear case for the need to deepen intra-ACP trade cooperation. He said that despite their numbers, ACP a long common history, they have always depended on global trade remains at two percent of the world trade. the platform of the European Union nations to interact The President, therefore, called for the ACP nations to with each other. The President stressed the need to focus on ways of removing bottlenecks which impede create other platforms on which Africa can have direct their capacity to compete globally. engagements with the Caribbean and Pacific countries

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IGAD HOLDS CONSULTATIONS ON FREE MOVEMENT OF PERSONS

National Consultative workshop on the Protocol and Kenya is driven by both internal and external A on Free Movement of Persons organised by the factors including economic opportunities, pasture, Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) conflicts, and degradation of the environment, natural was held in Naivasha in February 2018. The aim of the and manmade disasters, poor governance and poverty. consultative meeting was to gather information and All these factors lead thousands of people to migrate expert inputs from line ministries, civil society, academia in search of better economic opportunities and social safety. and private sector toward enriching the understanding and provisions of the proposed Protocol. The draft Protocol will be subjected to further consultations within the region. Addressing participants in his maiden official assignment since his appointment as Chief Administrative Secretary (CAS), Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Hon Ababu Namwamba lauded IGAD for convening the meeting. “This initiative could not have come at a better time, considering the magnitude of the challenge facing us in the horn of Africa, and the recent adoption of the Africa Union Free Movement protocol,” he said.

He emphasised that under the international protocols, governments have an obligation to ensure free movement of people, goods and services, as a critical component of facilitating investments and attracting skilled manpower. Migration in the IGAD region which comprises of , Somalia, Eritrea, Sudan, , Uganda CAS Ababu Namwamba meets President Salva Kiir in Juba

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MINISTRY FOSTERS ENGAGEMENT WITH DIPLOMATIC CORPS

n February 2018, the Cabinet Secretary for Foreign engagement with its partners and stakeholders to IAffairs and International Trade, Amb. Monica achieve these goals. Juma held a series of consultative meetings with the Diplomatic Corps from Africa, Asia and Australasia, Within the African continent, Kenya will continue to the Americas, Europe and the United Nations and champion the Pan-African agenda through continental its Agencies based in Nairobi. The objective of the integration and intra-African trade as a cornerstone for Africa’s development and economic prosperity. meetings was to provide an update on recent and Kenya will also continue to confront the emerging upcoming engagements focusing on the new direction adverse challenges on the continent such as terrorism for the and the Ministry. and human trafficking that threaten to roll back the continent’s socio-economic gains and impede the The Cabinet Secretary underscored the need for the attainment of Agenda 2063. Ministry to dedicate energy, time and resources in the coming five years towards the achievement of the In the Americas region, the Ministry will continue to Big Four Agenda and other key strategic priorities deepen and expand engagements with countries in that are aimed at accelerating Kenya’s transformation. the region, including implementation of programmes The Ministry will, therefore, be redefining Kenya’s and projects of common interest in key sectors such as

CS Monica Juma with CAS Ababu Namwamba(right) , PS Macharia Kamau (left) and Ethiopian ambassador in Kenya, Mr Dina Mufti during consultation with diplomatic corps

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CS Monica Juma poses with Diplomatic corps from the Middle East during consultations she held with Diplomats from all regions. security, health, sports and culture, energy, mining and these agreements and Memorandums of Understanding agriculture among others. (MoU) for the mutual benefit of the parties involved. The Ministry will also review the frameworks to Kenya is equally committed to enhancing bilateral determine their relevance and fit-for-purpose for which relations with the European countries as evidenced they were established. by the exchange of high-level visits at the presidential, ministerial and technical levels with most of European At the multilateral front, Kenya continues to call for the countries and the European Union. Foreign Direct allocation of more resources to UNEP and progressive Investments, infrastructure development, technology consolidation of its functions at the Nairobi office in transfer and capacity building from the region have line with the Rio+ 20 outcome. Kenya is proud to have been on an upward trend. It is worth noting that the successfully hosted three successive United Nations European Union is the 2nd largest market for Kenya Environmental Assembly meetings - UNEA-1 (2014), exports and the 2nd largest source of Foreign Direct UNEA-2 (2016) and UNEA-3 (2017). The country will Investment & Overseas Development Assistance as well continue to support the UNEP to ensure it discharges as a key source of tourist arrivals. its mandate efficiently and effectively.

The Middle East region presents major opportunities Kenya is seeking the support of member states for a for enhanced trade and investment, employment for non-permanent seat at the UN Security Council for the Kenya’s expanding Diaspora, enhancing security in areas period 2021-2022 during the elections to be held in June of common concern including religious extremism and 2020 in New York. Kenya’s candidature is informed by youth radicalisation. The region is also endowed with the role the country plays in enhancing and sustaining strategic waterways which are a crucial link between the regional peace. As non-permanent member Kenya will region, the Horn of Africa and the globe. There exist continue to advance the course of regional peace and opportunities for Kenya in exploiting the comparative security and address in a robust way the environmental advantage in the region in oil and gas prospecting, security related challenges. mining, processing and exportation of Kenya’s recently discovered oil. The Cabinet Secretary reiterated the importance of adherence to the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Through these bilateral engagements, Kenya has Relations on interaction with the host government, concluded several instruments of cooperation as a means noting that communication and engagement including of deepening partnership in areas of mutual interest. facilitation of visits to all Government institutions must The Ministry is working with Government Ministries, be conducted, coordinated and processed through the Departments and Agencies to put in a place a national Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade. mechanism to follow up on the implementation of

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KENYA-MOZAMBIQUE RECONNECT

resident Uhuru Kenyatta undertook a State visit to PMaputo at the invitation of President Filipe Jacinto To enhance ties between the two countries, President Nyusi, of Mozambique, on March 29, 2018. Kenyatta assured his host that Kenya will open a During the visit, the two Heads of State discussed Consulate in Mozambique in the next six months, later various issues of mutual interest at the bilateral, regional to be elevated to a fully-fledged High Commission. and multilateral levels and agreed to strengthen the He also inaugurated the Kenya-Mozambique Business existing collaboration between Kenya and Mozambique forum aimed at increasing trade and investment for socio-economic development of their citizens. between the two countries.

The Heads of State directed their Ministers of Foreign The Heads of State witnessed the signing of Affairs to hold a Joint Commission for Cooperation memorandums of understanding (MoU) on Political (JCC) in Nairobi in June 2018. The JCC will review Consultations and MoU on Trade and Investment. the following proposed priority areas for collaboration: The two leaders called for the establishment of linkages energy, mining, infrastructure, agriculture, tourism, between the ports of Mombasa, Nacala, Lamu, Beira financial services, transport, manufacturing, youth and and Maputo to facilitate increased trade and cultural sports, housing, culture, capacity building, health and exchanges and establish gateways to EAC and SADC maritime management among others. regions.

President Uhuru Kenyatta receives the key to Mozambique capital city of Maputo from its mayor David Simango during the state visit in March 2018

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HUNGARIAN SCHOLARSHIPS

enya and Hungary renewed their bilateral Kframework for cooperation in Education by signing a new Memorandum of understanding (MoU) in February 2018.

The MoU doubles the number of scholarship slots to Kenyan students from fifty to one hundred in various Hungarian Universities.

The scholarships are for the period 2018 to 2020 and will be given by the Government of Hungary through Stipendium Hungaricum Program which caters for full- 100 time study programs. The MoU also diversifies the type of courses that Kenyan students can pursue. Number of Hungarian The MoU was signed by H.E. László Máthé, Ambassador Scholarships awarded to of Hungary to Kenya and Prof Colleta Suda, Principal Secretary for Education. Kenyans The signing of the MoU followed the official visit to Hungary in 2017 by the then Cabinet Secretary for Foreign Affairs Amb .

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COSTA RICA OPENS FIRST EMBASSY IN AFRICA

osta Rica has opened its first Embassy in Nairobi, marine technologies Cthe first in Africa. The opening of the Embassy reaffirms the special relationship between the two During his visit, Hon. Manuel Gonzalez Sanz paid a countries and the value Costa Rica places on Africa. courtesy call on Amb. Monica Juma, Cabinet Secretary The inauguration of the Embassy on April 5, 2018, was for Foreign Affairs and International Trade to discuss graced by Costa Rica’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, bilateral, regional and global issues of mutual interest and to reaffirm Costa Rica’s partnership with Kenya Hon. Manuel Gonzalez Sanz and Lucy N. Kiruthu, within the framework of South-South cooperation. The Director/Americas Directorate. two Ministers signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Political Consultations to deepen and The opening of a permanent mission in Nairobi enhance relations. will enhance Costa Rica’s cooperation on global environmental issues, and serve as an epicentre for Costa Rica’s diplomacy in Africa, opening a range of opportunities to deepen the relationship with the continent. This also affirms Kenya’s position as a diplomatic hub and a gateway to Eastern and Central Africa.

Kenya–Costa Rica relationship can be enhanced through productive dialogue and sharing of experiences in various areas including tourism, trade and investment, manufacturing, health, education, Blue Economy and cooperation at the international level.

In the area of Blue Economy, Kenya and Costa Rica has Amb. Marta Eugenia Juarez Ruiz is Costa Rica’s a lot to learn from each other and can use it to further Ambassador to Kenya. Amb. Ruiz presented her Letter of enhance collaboration in developing marine life and Credence to President Kenyatta in March 2018.

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SWITZERLAND INAUGURATES NEW CHANCERY IN NAIROBI

he Swiss Confederation inaugurated its new TChancery in Nairobi on February 15, 2018. The Switzerland has been a strong partner of Kenya in the design and structure of the new Swiss Embassy building fight against corruption and economic crimes. In April was inspired by the ideals of the Nobel Laureate, the 2017, the two countries signed a Bilateral Agreement late Wangari Maathai in environmental conservation. on Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters.

The new building was officially inaugurated by the Amb Lugon-Moulin also met with the then Attorney Swiss Assistant State Secretary for Africa, Amb Anne General, Prof and the Director of the Lugon-Moulin, who during her official visit to Kenya Assets Recovery Agency (ARA), Ms Muthoni Kimani, paid a courtesy call on Amb Tom Amolo, Political and where they deliberated on the on-going bilateral Diplomatic Secretary at Ministry of Foreign Affairs negotiations of the Framework for the Return of Assets and International Trade where they discussed issues of from Corruption and Crime in Kenya. The Framework mutual interests between the two countries. will be signed by Kenya, Switzerland, United Kingdom and Jersey.

The ‘green’ Switzerland Nairobi Chancery

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KENYA SIGNS HISTORIC TRADE AGREEMENT

n March 21, 2018, the African Heads of State and Duties levied on imports and exports and the abolition, OGovernment converged in Kigali Rwanda, during among the Member States of Non-Tariff Barriers to the Extraordinary Summit of the African Union to establish a free trade area at the level of each regional launch the momentous African Continental Free economic community.” In so doing, the Members Trade Area (AfCFTA). The AfCFTA is the largest free expected that this process will result in the eventual trade area in the world, in terms of the number of establishment of a common market. These aspirations were concretised in January 2012 when the African participating countries. The launch of the AfCFTA is Union Assembly endorsed an Action Plan for Boosting a culmination of ten rigorous rounds of negotiations. Intra-African Trade and agreed on a roadmap to President Kenyatta signed the Agreement establishing establish a Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) by the AfCFTA, demonstrating Kenya’s belief in the 2017. AfCFTA negotiations were then launched during shared destiny and in fulfilment of the African dream. the 25th Ordinary AU Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa on June 15, 2015. The AfCFTA can be traced to the Treaty Establishing the African Economic Community of 1991 (Abuja The objectives of the AfCFTA are to establish a single Treaty), in which the OAU Members documented expanded market for goods, services, and movement their aspiration for the “liberalisation of trade through of persons; create a liberalised market for goods and the abolition, among the Member States, of Customs services; lay the foundation for the establishment of

President Uhuru Kenyatta Signs AfCFTA in Kigali

22 Volume 1 Issue 4 a continental customs union in future; promote and attain sustainable and inclusive social and economic development and structural transformation of the State Parties to the Agreement; enhance the competitiveness of the economies of State Parties within the continent and the global market; promotion of industrial development through diversification and regional value chain development, agricultural development and food security; and resolve the challenges of multiple and overlapping memberships and expediting regional and continental integration.

The implementation of the AfCFTA, will revolutionise intra-African trade and member states, Kenya included, should prepare to leverage the opportunities that will abound. Covering an area that has a combined population of over 1.2 billion people, a GDP of $ 3.4 trillion and a rapidly growing middle class, the AfCFTA will lead to the creation of a wider and expanded African market. The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) projects that if the AfCFTA is actualised, the intra-African trade will increase by 52.3% ($34.6 billion) in 2022, with Africa’s industrial CS Monicca Juma on Kenya desk during the Extra-ordinary exports expanding by 53.3% ($ 27.9 billion). Summit of Africa Union to launch AfCFTA

Currently, Kenya’s main export markets in Africa are the EAC and COMESA regions. The West African and North African markets remain unexploited. In 2016, Africa was the leading destination for Kenya’s exports, accounting for 40.6% of the total exports, valued at KShs 234.7 billion. Exports to the EAC accounted for 52% of total exports to Africa. Outside EAC and COMESA, the only significant market destination for Kenya’s exports is South Africa which accounts for only 2% of total exports to Africa. Through the AfCFTA, Kenya can expand its exports to the West and North Implementation African markets.

The large investment area that will be created by the AfCFTA will increase Kenya’s investment of the AfCFTA, competitiveness as it will enhance determinants for attracting Foreign Direct Investment since Kenya is a strategic investment hub in Africa. The AfCFTA will also will revolutionise promote Cross-Border Investment (CBI), consequently increasing member states’ entrepreneurs’ potential to invest across Africa. This will lead to expanded business and investment prospects, including the creation of intra-African more employment opportunities for women and youth.

Despite the above benefits, there is still a lot of work trade and ahead. Member States or customs unions will be required to submit their respective schedules of commitments for goods and services, in line with the agreed liberalisation member states, modalities. Member States are also expected to finalise the general as well as product-specific rules of origin to enable them to apply the preferences provided under the AfCFTA. More importantly, the Member States must ratify the Agreement for it to become operational. At least 22 the AU Member States must ratify the Agreement for it to come into effect.

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KENYA MAKES INROADS TO CENTRAL EUROPE

enya is keen to forge closer relations with Central expand tourism cooperation and explore the possibility Kand Eastern Europe as part of increasing its global of direct flights. footprint. This was underscored in March 2018 when the Political and Diplomatic Secretary (PDS), Amb. Serbia and Kenya will also engage in diplomatic training Tom Amolo led a delegation on political consultations for Kenyan Foreign Service Officers to exchange to Serbia. knowledge and transfer practical skills in diplomacy. To actualise this, a memorandum of understanding The visit was well received and appreciated by the (MoU) between the two Foreign Service Academies will Serbian government as a positive gesture of Kenya’s be signed. commitment to strengthen relations both at bilateral and multilateral fronts. A meeting with Mr Marko Cadez, the President of the Serbian Chamber of Commerce and Industry accorded Amb Amolo who was hosted by his counterpart Amb Amb. Amolo an opportunity to learn more about Zoran Vujic, said both Kenya and Serbia seek to Serbia’s key economic sectors. Serbia’s main industries leverage on a long-time friendship and widen the scope are involved in food processing, machinery, chemicals, of engagement to resonate with present needs and pharmaceutical, motor vehicles and base metals. It aspirations of the peoples of the two countries. was suggested that further interactions between the two chambers of commerce and industry should be During his visit, the PDS met Kenyan students in encouraged. Serbia extended an invitation for a smaller Serbia as well as members of the Serbian-Kenyan business delegation for a familiarisation venture. Friendship Group. In a lecture at the University of Belgrade themed “Kenya’s Foreign Affairs Today,” He enumerated key events and transformations shaping the African continent such as the recent March 2018 signing of the African Continental Free Trade Area.

During bilateral discussions, Serbia’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and First Deputy Prime Minister Mr Ivica Dacic thanked Kenya for continued cooperation. They agreed to deepen relations in trade, ICT, agriculture, tourism, human capital development and culture.

Kenya and Serbia boast of distinct tourism attractions that however remains largely untapped. A meeting with Mr Miroslav Knezevic, State Secretary at the Ministry PDS Ambassador Tom Amolo leads Kenyan delegations of Trade, Tourism and Telecommunications agreed to in political negotiations in Belgrade

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KENYA JOINS WORLD COMMONWEALTH LEADERS IN LONDON enya was amongst the 53 countries that attended post-Brexit Britain since the United Kingdom is one Kthe 25th Commonwealth Heads of Government of the biggest trading partners of Kenya and a leading Meeting (CHOGM) held in April 2018 in London. The source of foreign direct investment in Kenya, providing agenda of the meeting was the promotion of inclusive both direct and indirect employment to over 250,000 and sustainable economic growth, supporting small Kenyans. and vulnerable states and recognition of opportunities During CHOGM 2018, President Kenyatta met the UK for economic development from the oceans. leadership including Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Prince Charles and Prince William and Prime Minister Among the issues agreed on by Commonwealth Theresa May. leaders included: to unite and promote economic growth through exploitation of enormous resources On the side-lines of CHOGM 2018, the President met domiciled in the oceans (Blue Economy), mechanisms with the Canadian Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau who to boost trade within the group to $2 trillion-mark and invited President Kenyatta for the next G7 Summit to confronting security threats. be held in June 2018 in Quebec. The Summit will focus on climate change, security and trade. This underscores At the meeting, Kenya offered to champion the Kenya’s role as a key player in the search for stability in development of ‘blue’ economy provided for by the East African region. He also met Shahid Khaqan Commonwealth Blue Charter adopted in CHOGM Abbasi, Pakistani Prime Minister with whom they 2018. Kenya and Canada will co-host the Blue Economy agreed on the need to urgently review bilateral trade Conference on November 26-28, 2018 in Nairobi. engagements since the trade volumes between the two countries have been plummeting over the last few years. Kenya’s Foreign Affairs and International Trade, The President also had an opportunity to address the Cabinet Secretary Amb. Monica Juma said the focus venerable British think tank, the Chatham House in on oceans was more critical for Africa where at least 50 London and attend a live interview by CNN. percent of cities are located at sea level. She said threats and opportunities related to the oceans have a direct effect on at least half of settlements on the African continent.

During the Commonwealth Meeting, Kenya was also appointed to chair the Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group (CMAG) dealing with issues of conflict and governance. Kenya will chair CMAG for two-years deputised by Australia.

While in London one of the President’s priority agenda was trade and investment between Kenya and

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EAC MEMBER STATES FORGE CLOSER TIES

he East African Community (EAC) has made The Summit was preceded by the Joint EAC Heads Tthe most progress in integration compared to of State Retreat on Infrastructure and Health other regional economic blocs in Africa premised Financing and Development. The Retreat aimed at on four pillars of integration: The Customs Union, accelerating the attainment of the objectives of the Common Market Protocol, Monetary Union and EAC Development Strategy, Agenda 2063 and the Political Federation. Currently, the Customs Union Sustainable Development Goals in the infrastructure and health sectors. and Common Market Protocol have been implemented with on-going negotiations on the Monetary Union After the deliberations at the Summit, President and Political Federation. Kenyatta and President Museveni proceeded to officially commission the Busia One Stop Border Post (OSBP) The EAC Heads of State during their Summit held in located at the Kenya/Uganda border. Kampala in February 2018, expressed their commitment to ensuring the integration process remains on course. The OSBP ensures that effective border control They reiterated that trade is an important cog in the mechanisms are in place to boost trade by reducing the integration process and decried the recent decline in time spent in clearing goods between the two countries. the Intra-EAC trade attributed to the failure of the This will contribute to a reduction in transport cost, Partner States to fully implement the Customs Union whilst increasing volumes of transit cargo through the and Common Market Protocols. Partner States were Northern Corridor. The OSBP has brought about urged to fully implement the Common Market Protocol increased efficiency, inter-agency cooperation and towards free movement of goods, people and labour, improved coordination of all the border regulatory the rights of establishment and residence, and the free agencies. movement of services and capital across EAC borders.

The Heads of State recognised that, although tariffs in trade are continuously being eliminated among members, non-tariff barriers (NTBs) still constitute a major impediment to trade in the region. The Partner States agreed on the need to actively engage to eliminate the menace of NTBs. To this end, on the margins of the Summit, President Kenyatta and President John Pombe Magufuli directed their Ministers of Foreign Affairs to meet and resolve issues relating to trade and investment between the two countries. They expressed their commitment to regional cooperation, and especially to enhance people-to-people relations critical to promoting bilateral and regional trade. Presidents Uhuru Kenyatta and Yoweri Museveni in joint opening of one border post in Busia

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KENYA HANDS OVER APRM CHAIRMANSHIP

resident Uhuru Kenyatta handed over the President Kenyatta called on member states to recommit PChairmanship of the Africa Peer Review to the ideals and principles of the APRM by addressing Mechanism (APRM) to Chadian President Idriss Deby the governance deficiencies highlighted in the peer Itno. The change of leadership took place during the review processes. He further urged members to continue 27th Summit of the Forum of Heads of State and attending the APR Forums at elevated level and forge Government of the APRM in , Ethiopia closer collaboration between APRM and AU organs to facilitate better coordination in the implementation of in January 2018. the continent’s governance and development agenda. President Kenyatta took over the APRM’s leadership President Kenyatta leaves the APRM’s leadership at a in June 2015 from former President of Liberia Ellen- time when the AU Assembly has granted the Mechanism Sirleaf Johnson. The President’s first point of action an expanded mandate to spearhead monitoring and was the revitalisation of the Mechanism and to energise evaluation efforts on the implementation of sustainable momentum towards truly good governance through development goals (SDGs) and Africa Agenda 2063. transformative leadership across the continent. This means that the revitalised APRM should play a crucial monitoring role in the African and global At the time of the handing over in January 2018, development initiatives and frameworks for the the APRM had become vibrant, with Member States attainment of the SDGs and as envisioned in Agenda remitting their contributions which enabled the 2063. mechanism to undertake continental activities and achieve administrative targets. These activities included: 2018 marks the 15th Anniversary since the mutually Two Second Cycle Peer Reviews for Kenya (2017) agreed instrument Mechanism was founded in 2003. and Uganda (2018); First Peer Reviews for Sudan, The African self-monitoring mechanism, which is Djibouti, Senegal, and Chad among other countries; often described as “Africa’s unique and innovative Presentation of several Progress Reports to the APR approach to governance”, targets to improve governance Forum including for Sierra Leone and Zambia; while dynamics at the local, national and continental levels. Namibia and The Gambia (2018) acceded to the APRM The mechanism focuses on four thematic areas, which Statute for voluntary self-monitoring mechanism as the are used as the base for the Peer review assessment: 36th and 37th members respectively. Democratic and Political Governance; Economic Governance and Management; Socio-Economic In his handing over speech, President Kenyatta thanked Governance, and Corporate Governance. the members for their support and commitment to the APRM and indeed, to him as the Chairperson of the Forum. He also stressed the need to sustain the efforts already put in place to address the challenges that were perceived to have undermined the philosophy of the APRM.

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KENYA COMMITS TO AFRICA’S OPEN SKIES

he first phase of the Single African Air Transport TMarket (SAATM) was launched in January 2018 at the side-lines of the 30th Africa Union Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

The launch of SAATM heralds the first milestone towards the African continent’s efforts to start implementation of the 1999 Yamoussoukro Decision on the opening of the African skies for aviation. The Decision provides for full liberalisation of market access between African countries, free exercise of traffic rights, elimination of restrictions on ownership and full liberalisation of frequencies, fares and capacities. Kenya is amongst the eleven African countries that have declared their commitment to the establishment of SAATM.

28 Volume 1 Issue 4 PICTORIAL

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1. President Uhuru Kenyatta meets Queen Elizabeth durting CHOGM 2018, in Burkingham Palace, London 2. CS Monica Juma is received by Pakistani Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi in Islamabad 3. PS Macharia Kamau bids farewell to outgoing Russian ambassdor to Kenya Mr. Alexander Makarenko. 4. CS Juma receives Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali on arrival for a state visit in may 2018 4 5. DP in Khartoum to deepen bilateral relations, foster partnership and share best practices in agriculture and industrialisation

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6. CS Monica Juma receives His Highness the Aga Khan when he visited Kenya April 2018 7. PDS Tom Amolo, accompanied by Middle East Director Jacqueline Yonga, leads Kenya delegation to Israel for political consultation 8. CS Monica Juma with her Costa Rica counterpart Mr Manuel Gonzalez after signing MoU on political consultation 9. Kenya’s ambassador in Ethiopia, Ms Catherine Mwangi presents intruments of ratification of Africa-wide trade agreement to AUC Chairperson Mohammed Faki in Addis Ababa. 10. President Uhuru Kenyatta with new envoys from (L-R): United Arab Emirates-Khalid Khalifa Almualla, Poland -Jacek Bazanski, Djibouti - Yacin Elmi Bouh, Mozambique - Tsombe Constantino Lidimba and Angola’s - Syanga Samuel Abilio. CAS Hon Ababu Namwamba (second right) and 8 PDS Tom Amolo (left) were present at the State House ceremony.

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CONTRIBUTORS

Cabinet Secretary Chief Administrative Secretary Principal Secretary Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary International Trade

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REPUBLIC OF KENYA

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