President William Ruto has officially dispatched a new cohort of Kenya’s ambassadors, high commissioners, and consuls-general, underscoring the critical role of diplomacy in advancing the country’s strategic interests on the global stage. 

“There is no greater honour in public service than the duty to represent one’s country internationally,” Ruto said Tuesday while hosting the team at State House.

He described the envoys as carriers of Kenya’s hopes, values, and aspirations, with a clear mandate to foster mutually beneficial relations, safeguard national interests, and faithfully represent the people of Kenya with dedication and steadfast commitment.

Guided by outcomes-driven economic diplomacy and Kenya’s roadmap to transform into a first-world economy through the National Infrastructure Fund and the Sovereign Wealth Fund, the envoys were tasked with pursuing strategic trade and investment opportunities to accelerate development, create dignified livelihoods for young people, and promote shared prosperity.

Principal Secretary Korir Sing’Oei hosted the ambassadors and consuls-general-designate for a preparatory luncheon on Saturday, January 17, 2026.

“At such a defining moment in global history, we need more adept diplomatic hands to help steer our nation’s interests and protect vital global public goods. We are confident in each designee’s capacity to meet the demands imposed by their high duty,” PS Sing’Oei said.

President William Ruto with Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing'Oei during a meeting with the envoys at State House on January 20, 2025/PCS

The deployment follows the successful completion of a rigorous two-week pre-departure training at the Foreign Service Academy (FSA) in Nairobi.

The training was designed to equip the envoys with the practical and strategic skills necessary to represent Kenya effectively, strengthen bilateral and multilateral relations, and navigate complex global issues.

The officials were officially appointed by President Ruto through a Gazette Notice dated October 3, 2025, after parliamentary vetting and approval last September.

During the opening session of the training on October 23, 2025, Acting Director-General Patrick Wamoto urged the diplomats to demonstrate patience, resilience, accountability, and cultural intelligence in their new roles.

He emphasised that diplomacy is anchored in persuasion rather than coercion, and that consensus-building and mutually beneficial partnerships are key.

“A diplomat is both a negotiator and a bridge-builder. Learn the language, master the culture, and use every opportunity to tell Kenya’s story,” Wamoto said, highlighting the increasing complexity of diplomacy due to emerging global challenges, new actors, and evolving geopolitical dynamics.

He further noted that today’s diplomatic agenda extends beyond traditional political and economic concerns to include cross-border issues such as climate change, water security, pollution, biodiversity, infectious diseases, terrorism, drug trafficking, food security, cyber security, and international crime.

“Effective diplomacy demands proactive and knowledgeable engagement,” Wamoto said.

The acting DG underscored the government’s focus on economic diplomacy, urging Kenya’s missions abroad to function as vibrant hubs for investment promotion, trade expansion, and job creation.

He also emphasised the importance of digital diplomacy, encouraging the envoys to enhance their communication and social media skills to project Kenya’s image positively and counter misinformation.

The following individuals were appointed to serve in Kenya’s missions abroad:

• Anthony Mwaniki Muchiri – Ambassador to Ankara, Turkey
• Lucy Kiruthu – Ambassador to Bangkok, Thailand
• Joseph Musyoka Masila – Ambassador to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
• Edwin Afande – Ambassador to Vienna, Austria
• Florence Chepngetich Bore – High Commissioner to Namibia
• Henry Wambuma – High Commissioner to Bujumbura, Burundi
• Abdirashid Salat Abdille – High Commissioner to Jakarta, Indonesia
• Jayne Jepkorir Toroitich – Consul General in Dubai, UAE
• Judy Kiaria Nkumiri – Consul General in Goma, DRC
• David Mwangi – Ambassador to Seoul, Republic of Korea

The envoys are expected to assume duty in their respective stations upon completing their training, carrying with them Kenya’s mandate to advance the nation’s interests, strengthen partnerships, and contribute to the country’s journey toward global prominence and shared prosperity. by FELIX KIPKEMOI, The Star