This archive report was first published on 22 August 2019.
On August 22, 2019, Kenya made history by securing 37 votes against Djibouti's 13 in a closely contested African Union vote for a special United Nations position.
This major diplomatic victory has put Kenya in a strong position to become Africa's sole candidate for a United Nations Security Council seat, a significant achievement that could cement the country's position as a regional power and a rising player in international politics.
Kenyan diplomats, led by Foreign Affairs Cabinet Secretary Monica Juma, have been instrumental in bringing the country to this level, and their efforts have been commended by President Uhuru Kenyatta, who sees this as a significant contribution to his legacy.
Should Kenya win the Security Council position, it will be a great national achievement, securing the non-permanent seat in the elections next June for the 2021-2022 period.
President Kenyatta expressed gratitude for the confidence shown in Kenya by the AU's Permanent Representatives Committee, stating that winning the seat would be an opportunity for Kenya to sit at the same table with the permanent members, including the United States, who are the major decision makers on global peace and security.
