The Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs has launched the Coast Edition of the Foreign Policy Mashinani Initiative, a nationwide outreach programme aimed at bringing Kenya’s foreign policy closer to citizens at the grassroots.
Officials said the initiative seeks to make foreign policy people-centered, participatory, and responsive to emerging global developments.
This follows the 2024 review of Kenya’s foreign policy, which culminated in Sessional Paper No. 1 of 2025 outlining eight thematic areas, including peace and security, economic diplomacy, oceans and blue economy, diaspora engagement, and socio-cultural diplomacy.
Speaking at the launch held at the Bandari Maritime Academy in Mombasa, Director-General Ambassador Josphat Maikara, representing Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs Dr. Musalia Mudavadi, said the initiative recognizes citizens as active contributors to the formulation and implementation of the country’s foreign policy.
“This programme is designed to connect global engagements with local development, and to ensure that the voices of our citizens guide Kenya’s foreign policy,” Maikara said.
Governor Issa Timamy of Lamu County welcomed the initiative, describing it as a people-centered project that brings tangible benefits to coastal communities.
He emphasized Lamu’s strategic role in Kenya’s blue economy, particularly through LAPSSET, and highlighted the potential for growth in maritime trade, security cooperation, climate adaptation, diaspora engagement, and cultural diplomacy.
He added that the annual Lamu Festival provides a platform to showcase the region’s Swahili heritage.
Kilifi County Deputy Governor Flora Chibule expressed appreciation for the programme’s outreach beyond Nairobi, noting that it aligns local experiences with global aspirations. She encouraged intergovernmental cooperation to create opportunities for youth and entrepreneurs along the coast and stressed the importance of establishing regional foreign affairs desks to make policy and investment opportunities more accessible.
During the public discussions, community members raised concerns and questions on a wide range of issues. Khalifa asked how the local economy could better support coconut and seaweed farmers and protect fishermen from illegal foreign fishing practices.
Omar Salim sought guidance on scholarships and training for youth in the blue economy and protections for Kenyans working abroad. Daisy Magut inquired about systems for supporting families of Kenyans who die abroad.
Other participants raised questions about transparency, access to opportunities, environmental sustainability, and the protection of citizens from scams and unsafe recruitment practices abroad.
