NAIROBI,Kenya, Jul 8- Kenya has unveiled sweeping reforms to modernise its Foreign Service, with the government placing economic diplomacy, institutional accountability and digital transformation at the centre of its diplomatic strategy as it seeks to boost trade, attract investment and expand the country’s global influence .

📻 Breaking It Down

The reform agenda, announced by Principal Secretary for Foreign Affairs Korir Sing’Oei during the opening of the State Department for Foreign Affairs Strategic Leadership Retreat, will guide the ministry’s priorities for the 2026/27 financial year.

The reforms include restructuring the State Department to align with emerging geopolitical and economic realities, creating dedicated divisions for trade, investment and international finance, strengthening the Diplomatic Privileges and Immunities Unit, and accelerating the adoption of digital technologies and artificial intelligence to modernise diplomatic operations.

“Our responsibility is not simply to manage today’s institution. It is to build a Foreign Service that Kenya will rely upon tomorrow,” PS Sing’Oei told senior diplomats and ministry officials attending the three-day retreat.

📌 What You Need to Know

He said diplomacy must increasingly deliver measurable economic benefits by opening new markets for Kenyan exports, attracting foreign investment and creating opportunities for businesses and workers.

“The true measure of economic diplomacy is no longer the number of engagements we undertake, but the opportunities created for Kenyan businesses, investors, entrepreneurs and workers,” he said.

PS Sing’Oei also announced a tougher accountability framework, warning that recurring audit queries, procurement irregularities and weaknesses in financial management would no longer be tolerated.

“We cannot continue answering routine questions arising from weaknesses in basic financial management,” he said, adding that stronger internal controls and prudent use of public resources were essential to protecting the ministry’s credibility.

The Principal Secretary said Kenya’s growing international stature, requires a more agile and professional diplomatic service capable of advancing both national and continental interests.

To strengthen institutional capacity, the ministry promoted 37 Directors, 33 Assistant Directors and 16 Principal Foreign Service Officers as part of a broader succession planning programme that will also include structured mentorship, career progression guidelines and continuous professional development.

📰 Source: Capital FM Kenya