Kenya in the World Today

Foreign Policy
Kenya's foreign policy follows that of India's non-alignment; Kenya does not interfere with other countries unless its own national security were to be at risk, and other than economic interests does not interact much with the outside world. Kenya is a member of the United Nations and the Commonwealth.

As stated on the websites of both the Permanent Mission of the Republic of Kenya to the United Nations in Geneva and Kenya's Ministry of Foreign Affairs:

Kenya’s foreign policy has, since independence been designed and guided by the following basic and universally recognized norms:

• Respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity of other states and preservation of national security
• Good neighborliness and peaceful co-existence
• Peaceful settlement of disputes
• Non-interference in the internal affairs of other states
• Non-alignment and national self-interest
• Adherence to the Charters of the UN and OAU/AU

Kenya provides security to its people by seeking peace and stability in the surrounding region, and pursues an open economic policy. Aware of the interconnectedness of the region, Kenya participates in many regional initiatives trying to benefit the trade and investment that has come about as a result of globalization. In fact, 40% of Kenya's exports go to such an initiative, the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA).

Kenya stays out of the affairs of nations not affiliated with it but does pursue active relationships with its neighbors and trade partners, providing assistance to such countries in conflict. For example, Kenya has actually recieved international recognition for its efforts in mediating between Southern Sudan and Somalia according to the IGAD arrangements. (Inter-Governmental Authority on Development)

In world politics, Kenya is involved in global organizations such as the United Nations, the World Bank, WTO, and other beneficial global organizations. Kenya does not seek isolation, but rather non-alignment and peaceful, non-confrontational relationships with everyone.

Achievements

One of Kenya’s greatest achievements is that it was able to break away from British control and gain its independence. Kenya was able to attain its independence on December 12, 1963. The long, immense struggle of the Kenyan people was well worth the subsequent reward.