Kenya has moved to clear the air after confusion and tension arose over the nomination of Judy Kiaria Nkumiri as Consul-General to Goma in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi stepped forward on Monday, August 18, to explain the process after the DRC government objected, saying Kenya had not followed due diplomatic protocol.
Mudavadi stressed that President William Ruto’s announcement of a nominee does not mean an official appointment. He said the Constitution makes it clear that Parliament must first approve such nominations before any diplomat can assume office.
“Once the nominee receives parliamentary approval, Kenya will formally request Agrément or acceptance by the host state, in this case the DRC,” Mudavadi explained.
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This clarification came after the DRC Ministry of Foreign Affairs formally raised concerns. Their main issue was that there had been no prior consultation before Kenya announced its choice for Goma.
Mudavadi revealed that he had already spoken with DRC’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner, to explain Kenya’s procedures and assure her that proper steps would be followed.
He reminded both Kenyans and the international community that the appointment process is anchored in Article 132(2)(e) of the Constitution of Kenya. This article gives the President powers to nominate ambassadors, high commissioners, and consuls, but only with parliamentary approval.
The Prime Cabinet Secretary also took time to underline that Kenya’s foreign policy decisions are not influenced by negative politics. Instead, he insisted, they are guided by the goal of improving service delivery through the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).
Mudavadi reassured the DRC that Kenya respects its sovereignty and territorial integrity. He explained that the nomination should not be seen as interference in Congo’s internal affairs.
“Kenya and the DRC are strategic partners in trade, economic integration, and security. Our relationship is built on mutual benefit and trust,” Mudavadi said in his statement.
He further noted that the two countries have enjoyed warm relations over the years and continue to share opportunities in trade and regional cooperation.
Beyond trade, Mudavadi highlighted Kenya’s role in peacebuilding. He confirmed that Kenya will remain active in the EAC-SADC-AU initiative, where it serves as co-chair, to help bring peace and stability to eastern Congo.
“Kenya will continue to champion peace in the DRC and the wider region,” he assured.
This clarification follows President William Ruto’s announcement of a major reshuffle in Kenya’s Foreign Service on Friday, August 15. The President named new ambassadors, high commissioners, consuls-general, and deputy heads of mission in several countries.
State House Spokesperson Hussein Mohamed explained that these changes were made to boost diplomatic performance and strengthen service delivery across the globe.
“In an Executive Action carried out today, the President has realigned the nation’s Foreign Service to optimise performance and enhance service delivery, as outlined in the Administration’s Manifesto under BETA,” Hussein Mohamed’s statement read.
The DRC issue, however, quickly became a talking point because of Goma’s importance. The city, located in eastern Congo, is both a strategic trade hub and a conflict-prone region. For this reason, the DRC government was particularly sensitive about Kenya’s move.
Observers say Kenya’s quick response through Mudavadi shows the importance Nairobi attaches to its relations with Kinshasa. It also shows the delicate balance Kenya must maintain in its regional diplomacy.
Diplomatic analysts point out that such misunderstandings are not unusual. In fact, the practice of requesting Agrément from a host country is standard procedure in international diplomacy.
For now, Judy Kiaria Nkumiri remains a nominee. She cannot assume her role in Goma until Kenya’s Parliament approves her and the DRC formally accepts her credentials.
The situation also highlights how Kenya is reshaping its foreign service to reflect President Ruto’s development agenda. By appointing new envoys, the government hopes to strengthen its global presence while supporting regional peace and trade.
As Mudavadi concluded in his statement, the relationship between Kenya and the DRC remains strong. Both nations continue to see each other as partners for prosperity and peace in the region.
