This archive report was first published on 21 August 2019.
On August 21, 2019, Kenya secured a significant victory in its bid for a non-permanent seat at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). The African Union (AU) endorsed Kenya as the sole candidate for the seat, reserved for the continent in 2021.
Kenya's victory came after a decisive vote by the Permanent Representatives Committee (PRC), which endorsed the country by 37 votes against Djibouti's 13. This marked the end of the second round of voting.
Kenya's President Uhuru Kenyatta had been on a diplomatic campaign to secure the seat, meeting with numerous presidents and diplomats. His efforts appear to have paid off, with Kenya securing the seat.
Kenya's candidature was informed by the critical role the UN Security Council plays in maintaining international peace and security, according to President Kenyatta. He also highlighted Kenya's status as the host of the only United Nations Office in Africa, expressing hope that the country would receive support from the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) during deliberations at the 5th Committee of the United Nations General Assembly.
