Kenya has officially recognized the Republic of Kosovo as an independent state, opening doors for formal diplomatic relations between the two nations.
The recognition was announced on Wednesday through a proclamation signed by President William Ruto at State House, Nairobi.
In the declaration, Kenya acknowledged Kosovo’s right to self-determination, noting that the nation declared independence on February 17, 2008, and has since been recognized by more than half of the United Nations member states.
The decision also aligns with the 2010 advisory opinion of the International Court of Justice (ICJ), which ruled that Kosovo’s declaration of independence did not violate international law.
“Cognizant that the International Court of Justice, in its advisory opinion on July 22, 2010, concluded that Kosovo’s independence declaration did not violate international law, Kenya recognizes the Republic of Kosovo as a sovereign state,” President Ruto stated.
Additionally, Kenya considered the UN General Assembly’s 2010 resolution, which acknowledged the ICJ’s ruling, in shaping its stance on Kosovo.
While reaffirming its strong ties with Serbia, Kenya also recognized the normalization of relations between Kosovo and Serbia, emphasizing its commitment to international law, territorial integrity, and fostering friendly diplomatic relations.
Beyond diplomacy, Kenya confirmed it will recognize Kosovo’s travel documents and explore collaboration in key sectors of mutual interest.
Kosovo, which has been seeking broader international recognition since 2008, now secures Kenya’s endorsement, nearly five years after Israel recognized Kosovo in September 2020.
