Change of Guard at the Middle East Directorate

Ambassador Joseph Masila, the designate Ambassador to Riyadh has officially handed over the reigns of the Middle East Directorate at the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs to Ambassador Lindsay Kiptiness ndc (K), Deputy Director General and Kenya’s former representative to Bangkok.

Amb. Masila expressed his appreciation for the chance to serve in the Directorate, recognising the Ministry's top leadership's support under the direction of the Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, as well as the Principal Secretary for Foreign Affairs.

Amb. Masila recognised the collaboration of Middle Eastern regional ambassadors serving in Kenya as well as his counterparts serving in Kenya Missions across the Middle East, for their commitment to strengthening Kenya’s bilateral relations in the region.

As he prepares to assume his new responsibilities as Kenya’s representative to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Amb. Masila expressed his confidence in his successor, Amb. Kiptiness’s vast diplomatic experience that would steer and further advance Kenya–Middle East relations.

In his remarks, Amb. Kiptiness thanked Amb. Masila and the Directorate for the warm reception accorded to him and pledged to build on the strong foundation already established. He encouraged officers to embrace challenges positively and take up leadership roles as part of effective succession management.

Amb. Kiptiness called upon his new colleagues to deepen their understanding of the issues they handle, approach their work with confidence, and demonstrate professionalism in carrying out their duties. He reiterated the importance of teamwork, cooperation, and maintaining a culture of continuous improvement, noting that every officer should strive to make a positive impact wherever they serve.

The handing over ceremony reinforces the Ministry’s commitment to strengthening Kenya’s engagement and partnerships across the Middle East.