By,Ashley Kariuki
Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, Musalia Mudavadi, on Tuesday hosted a farewell meeting for U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Marc Dillard, who is concluding his diplomatic assignment in Kenya.
The high-level engagement served as a reaffirmation of the robust bilateral relationship between Kenya and the United States. Mudavadi praised Dillard for his active role in fostering deeper diplomatic, economic, and security ties during his tenure, calling the outgoing envoy “a valuable partner in advancing Kenya–U.S. cooperation.”
“Our conversation reflected on the enduring strength of Kenya–US relations, with appreciation for the strides made in advancing diplomatic and economic cooperation across critical sectors. We reaffirmed our shared commitment to deepening collaboration in areas of mutual interest, including trade, investment, and innovation,” stated Mudavadi.
Key highlights of their discussion included joint initiatives in innovation, economic development, and counter-terrorism, with Mudavadi emphasizing Kenya’s pivotal role in the Horn of Africa and the broader East African region. The two also exchanged views on evolving global geopolitical trends, including their impacts on economic resilience and human development, particularly in Africa.
“We also exchanged views on regional and global security dynamics, particularly the shifting geopolitical environment and its implications for economic stability, human capital development, and global partnerships,” added the PCS.
Dillard, who has served as the top U.S. diplomat in Nairobi in an acting capacity, expressed confidence that bilateral momentum would continue under the incoming U.S. ambassador, who has been nominated by former President Donald Trump.
He lauded Kenya’s progress as a regional leader and reiterated America’s commitment to supporting Kenya’s development goals.
The farewell meeting symbolized the continuity of a longstanding partnership, with both leaders expressing optimism about the future of Kenya–U.S. relations.