Kenya appoints new ambassador to Somalia

NAIROBI - Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta has appointed a new Ambassador to neighboring Somalia to boost diplomatic relations.

In a statement issued on Friday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Maj Gn (Rtd) Thomas Chepkuto will serve as the Head of Mission in Mogadishu.

Chepkuto was among 24 new ambassadors and High Commissioners as Heads of Missions who were appointed by Uhuru ahead of the August election.

The new ambassador has served as the Director-General of Kenya Space Agency [KSA] since June 2021. He handed over the office to the incoming Ag DG Col Hillary Kipkosgey.

The ceremony was presided over by CS Defence Amb. Dr. Monica Juma and the Chairperson of the BoD Maj Gen (Rtd) James Aruasa at Ulinzi Hse 1/2.

Chepkuto will replace Lucas Tumbo, who has held the post since 2015.

Meanwhile, Uhuru named Benson Mwaliko – Kenya Consulate Hargeisa, Somaliland, which has been fighting for international recognition for the last three decades, but failed as the world considers it as the region is part of the greater Somalia.

Somalia and Kenya have restored their diplomatic relations last year after months of hiatus that resulted from Farmajo’s failed foreign policy.

The appointment of 24 new Ambassadors and High Commissioners comes 109 days before President Kenyatta, who has ruled the country for eight years leaves office.

GAROWE ONLINE