This archive report was first published on 19 June 2020.
On June 18, 2020, Kenya secured a historic victory at the United Nations Security Council, winning a non-permanent seat after a second round of voting. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has since reached out to Djibouti, pledging to work closely with the country and adopt its aspirations.
Foreign Affairs Chief Administrative Secretary Ababu Namwambwa emphasized the importance of regional cooperation, stating, "The fact that we were bidding for the same seat does not change our relationship and we are glad that the President of Djibouti has sent us a congratulatory message, we look forward to integrating any agenda that Djibouti has and within the United Nations Security Council we shall join it with our agenda and together we shall move forward."
Kenya's victory was largely due to its support for refugees from Somalia and South Sudan, as well as its support to the two countries' fragile governments. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in conjunction with the Ministry of Defence, will champion for regional stability and peace, a key pillar in Kenya's 10-point agenda for the two-year term at the Security Council.
Kenya will seek to rally African and global consensus around security issues, including terrorism, which it has identified as a key agenda. The country will work to dismantle terrorism and promote regional stability, building on its existing relationships with Djibouti and other regional partners.
