Foreign Service Academy Begins Training for Newly Appointed Envoys

The Foreign Service Academy (FSA) has launched a two-week pre-departure training for newly appointed High Commissioners, Ambassadors, and Consuls General who are set to take up diplomatic postings in Kenya’s missions abroad.

The programme is part of the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs’ capacity-building initiatives aimed at preparing the new envoys to effectively promote Kenya’s interests and strengthen bilateral and multilateral relations in their respective host countries.

Speaking during the opening session in Nairobi, Acting Director-General Amb. Patrick Wamoto, EBS, urged the diplomats to demonstrate patience, resilience, accountability, and cultural intelligence as they take up their new roles.

He reminded them that diplomacy is anchored in persuasion rather than coercion, stressing the importance of consensus-building and nurturing mutually beneficial partnerships.

“A diplomat is both a negotiator and a bridge-builder. Learn the language, master the culture, and use every opportunity to tell Kenya’s story,” Amb. Wamoto said.

He noted that diplomacy has become increasingly complex due to emerging global challenges, new actors, and evolving geopolitical dynamics—factors that require versatility and innovation from Kenya’s diplomats.

The Acting Director-General added that today’s diplomatic agenda extends beyond traditional political and economic concerns to encompass cross-border issues such as climate change, water security, pollution, and biodiversity.

Amb. Wamoto also called on the envoys to remain informed on global challenges including infectious diseases, terrorism, drug trafficking, food security, cyber security, and international crime, emphasizing that effective diplomacy demands proactive and knowledgeable engagement.

He underscored the government’s continued focus on economic diplomacy, noting that Kenya’s missions abroad must evolve into vibrant hubs for investment promotion, trade expansion, and job creation.

The envoy further highlighted the growing importance of digital diplomacy, urging the envoys to enhance their communication and social media skills to effectively engage global audiences, counter misinformation, and project Kenya’s image positively.

The training follows new ambassadorial and consular appointments by President William Ruto, made under Article 132 (2)(e) of the Constitution and approved by Parliament.

According to a Gazette Notice dated October 3, 2025, the following individuals were appointed to serve in Kenya’s missions abroad:

Anthony Mwaniki Muchiri – Ambassador to Ankara, Turkey

Lucy Kiruthu – Ambassador to Bangkok, Thailand

Joseph Musyoka Masila – Ambassador to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Edwin Afande – Ambassador to Vienna, Austria

Florence Chepngetich Bore – High Commissioner to Namibia

Henry Wambuma – High Commissioner to Bujumbura, Burundi

Abdirashid Salat Abdille – High Commissioner to Jakarta, Indonesia

Jayne Jepkorir Toroitich – Consul General in Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Judy Kiaria Nkumiri – Consul General in Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo

David Mwangi – Ambassador to Seoul, Republic of Korea

The envoys are expected to assume duty in their respective stations upon completion of the training.