Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Dr. Musalia Mudavadi, has urged Kenyans to trust in the power of diplomacy as the most effective way to navigate emerging regional tensions, particularly those involving the Republic of Tanzania. Appearing before the National Assembly Committee on Regional Integration, Dr. Mudavadi emphasized that diplomatic efforts, characterized by patience and persistence, are the government’s primary approach to resolving disagreements with neighboring countries.

“Let us allow the Diplomatic process to proceed. If diplomacy fails, I will come and declare that the diplomatic channel has failed and therefore let’s use a different method,” Mudavadi stated, reassuring the committee that the government is fully committed to peaceful and constructive engagement.

Dr. Mudavadi highlighted Kenya’s strong bilateral relations with Tanzania and Uganda, citing the ongoing 2024 CHAN football tournament, which the three countries are co-hosting, as a testament to their continued collaboration and shared identity. He pointed out that Kenya has been a significant beneficiary of the East African Community (EAC) integration, with increased exports and expanded access to regional markets. This success, he noted, is a result of Kenya’s proactive engagement in regional trade and economic diplomacy.

Beyond conflict resolution, Dr. Mudavadi stressed that expanding regional integration is crucial for unlocking economic potential. He affirmed that Kenya is deliberately working to broaden and diversify its markets, with strategic participation in organizations like COMESA and the EAC, as well as advocating for the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

He also underscored the importance of infrastructure development as a key pillar for regional growth. Projects like the expansion of the Nakuru-Malaba road and progress on the LAPSSET Corridor were cited as examples of Kenya’s commitment to improving connectivity and trade facilitation across East Africa.

Dr. Mudavadi concluded by reiterating his call for national support of diplomatic processes, asserting that diplomacy is not just a tool for resolving conflict but also a vehicle for building stronger partnerships and ensuring lasting prosperity and stability in the region.