Kenya is once again walking a diplomatic tightrope after making a decision that could upset neighbouring countries, especially Somalia.
The Kenyan government recently confirmed that it fully recognises the Federal Government of Somalia, based in Mogadishu, as the only legitimate authority with the right to govern all parts of Somalia — including the self-declared independent regions of Jubaland and Somaliland.
However, despite this official recognition, President William Ruto’s administration has made it clear that Kenya will continue to engage directly with both Jubaland and Somaliland.
In a carefully worded statement released on Monday by the State Department for Foreign Affairs, Kenya stressed that it respects Somalia’s sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity in line with international laws and regional agreements.
The government also emphasized that any contact with the breakaway regions will only happen in agreement with the Federal Government in Mogadishu and will be aimed at supporting regional peace, security efforts, and trade interests.
“The Government of the Republic of Kenya reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the sovereignty, territorial integrity, national unity, and political independence of the Federal Republic of Somalia,” the statement said.
It went on to say, “Kenya acknowledges the Federal Government in Mogadishu as the only legitimate body responsible for managing the entire country, including its regions.”
At the same time, the statement added that Kenya will maintain its working relationships with the sub-national governments in Jubaland and Somaliland.
It clarified that this engagement will be done in collaboration with Somalia’s federal leadership and will only be meant to boost mutual interests in security and economic matters.
“Kenya will, in consultation with the Federal Government of Somalia, establish contact and diplomatic presence with subnational governments as agreed from time to time,” the statement read.
According to the Foreign Affairs Department, Kenya’s stance is guided by key principles laid out in international agreements such as the United Nations Charter, the African Union’s Constitutive Act, and treaties of the East African Community.
Kenya’s own foreign policy also strongly upholds the principles of respecting national sovereignty, avoiding interference in other countries’ internal affairs, and promoting peaceful solutions to conflicts.
The statement also highlighted the long-standing relationship between Kenya and Somalia, which is built on deep historical ties, cultural connections, and close social bonds.
These shared values continue to guide the two nations as they work together to achieve peace, stability, and sustainable growth in the region.
Kenya sees Somalia as an important partner in achieving these shared goals and says it is committed to improving the bilateral relationship based on mutual trust, respect for each other’s independence, and a shared understanding of national borders.
This latest diplomatic move comes just months after Kenya created waves internationally with other bold decisions that strained ties with different countries.
On March 26, President William Ruto formally recognised Kosovo as an independent state — a step that triggered a diplomatic row with Serbia, a close ally of Russia and China at the United Nations.
The recognition of Kosovo made Kenya the first country in the world to do so in over five years. Photos and messages shared on Facebook by former Kosovo President Behgjet Pacolli showed Ruto signing the recognition letter, confirming the move.
A month later, during a trip to Europe, President Ruto caused more tension when he briefly met with Kosovo’s current president, Vjosa Osmani, despite existing protests about such interactions during Pope Francis’s funeral at the Vatican.
In another controversial diplomatic move, Kenya also faced criticism over its role in the ongoing conflict in Sudan.
The Kenyan government hosted members of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a rebel group that is fighting Sudan’s official government.
The RSF signed a charter in Nairobi aimed at forming a rival government, which further strained relations between the two countries.
In retaliation, Sudan suspended tea imports from Kenya, a move seen as a direct punishment against Nairobi’s actions.
These recent developments suggest that Kenya’s new foreign policy under President Ruto is more assertive and willing to take bold steps even at the risk of upsetting allies or neighbours.
However, the country now finds itself under increased scrutiny from regional partners, as it attempts to balance national interests, international law, and diplomatic relationships across East Africa and beyond.
Join Gen Z New WhatsApp Channel To Stay Updated On time https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaWT5gSGufImU8R0DO30
