Budget and Appropriations Committee Supports Review of Kenya’s Foreign Policy
The Budget and Appropriations Committee has pledged its support to the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs in reviewing and refining Kenya’s Foreign Policy, acknowledging the necessity for an updated framework that aligns with the country’s evolving global position and domestic priorities. The announcement came during a meeting between the Committee members, led by Vice-chairperson Hon. Mary Emaase (Teso South), and Ministry officials, including Principal Secretary Dr. Korir Sing’oei.
Hon. Emaase highlighted the role of Parliament in shaping the country’s foreign policy. “For you to fully develop this policy, there will be a need for legislative interventions to anchor the policy, ratification of various diplomatic tools, and oversight over critical areas,” she said. She emphasized that Parliament would be integral to ensuring that the policy’s objectives benefit the people of Kenya.
Dr. Sing’oei explained that the 2014 Foreign Policy document, while historically significant, no longer adequately addresses the dynamic shifts in both domestic and international landscapes. He noted that in light of Kenya’s new Bottom-up Economic Transformation Agenda and the changing geopolitical climate, the policy must be realigned. “We live in a different world now, and even though we had a policy which is 10 years old, you will admit that it requires a review,” said Dr. Sing’oei, adding that the Ministry is engaging a wide range of stakeholders, including Parliament, to ensure broad participation in the revision process.
The Principal Secretary emphasized that the policy belongs to all Kenyans, underscoring that foreign policy is not just the responsibility of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, but a collective national endeavor. “Foreign policy is not the property of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs but the property of Kenya. Even as Parliamentarians, you have a right to be part of the Ministry’s goal in foreign policy,” he added, noting the diplomatic roles played by MPs both locally and internationally.
Committee members shared suggestions for areas to be incorporated into the revised policy and stressed the need for continuous capacity-building within the Ministry. Hon. Emaase encouraged officials to ensure that MPs are well-equipped to perform their legislative duties, especially in relation to the budgetary process tied to foreign policy.
Kenya’s Foreign Policy, originally designed to guide the nation’s engagements with other countries, promotes national interests and security while reflecting the country’s values and goals. It is closely aligned with Kenya’s broader development blueprints and seeks to ensure the country’s prosperity in a globalized world.
As the review progresses, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs continues to involve key stakeholders, including Parliament, to ensure that the updated policy reflects both Kenya’s ambitions and the realities of an increasingly interconnected global community.
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