16 new missions would increase Kenya’s foothold globally, Juma

CS Ambassador Monica Juma wants the National Assembly’s Defence and Foreign Relations committee allocate more funds for her foreign affairs ministry so that Kenya would be able to establish 16 new missions and consequently increase Kenya’s foothold across the world.

Dr Juma pushed for a Sh37.8 billion allocation to the ministry in the next financial year, at a time Kenya is experiencing boundary issues with her neighbours, the latest being the dispute with Somalia in the Indian Ocean.

She said a huge chunk of the proposed budget would go towards increasing missions and consulates abroad from the current 56 to 72, thereby expanding Kenya’s diplomatic footprint and representation globally.

Dr Juma warned that Kenya’s influence in the region and beyond is likely to get a beating unless there is enhanced funding to support the country’s foreign policy.

Foreign Affairs

“It is also looking at how other countries would want to inhibit our growth. We need to revitalise the Foreign Service Academy to prepare us for the world of tomorrow and not just today,” Dr Juma said.

The country uses its foreign missions to promote engagement with other nations for a better global standing and recognition.

The decision to increase the foreign missions was approved by the Cabinet last year and was to start immediately with the opening of three missions.

But the matter was pushed to the 2019/20 financial year due to cash delays at the National Treasury.

Image result for monica juma foreign mission

According to the Budget Policy Statement under consideration in Parliament, Treasury has proposed an allocation of Sh15 billion, which Dr Juma said was not enough for a real grip on the continent and beyond.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *