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Mudavadi holds talks with UK Secretary of State David Lammy

"We also addressed Kenya's commitment to fighting corruption."

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by ROZANNE NTHAMBI

News28 October 2024 - 16:19
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In Summary


  • The meeting was aimed at reinforcing ties between Kenya and the United Kingdom.
  • Mudavadi through his X handle said the two engaged in discussions on key initiatives to support Kenya’s growth.

Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and UK Secretary of State David Lammy during the meeting on October 28, 2024/ HANDOUT

Prime Cabinet Secretary on Monday held bilateral talks with the UK’s Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Affairs, David Lammy.

The meeting was aimed at reinforcing ties between Kenya and the United Kingdom.

Mudavadi through his X handle said the two engaged in discussions on key initiatives to support Kenya’s growth, enhance governance, and contribute to regional peace.

"Our discussions were productive, focusing on green industrialisation and open governance initiatives (notably, Action Plan Five), aimed at enhancing youth empowerment and expanding civic space in Kenya," Mudavadi said.

According to Mudavadi, the meeting highlighted shared priorities in sustainable development, transparency, and cooperative efforts toward stability in East Africa.

Mudavadi said these initiatives underline Kenya's commitment to sustainable development and inclusive governance, aiming to provide greater opportunities for young Kenyans.

"We also addressed Kenya's commitment to fighting corruption. I informed the Secretary that Kenya has formally requested the IMF to conduct a comprehensive corruption diagnostic across government institutions, reaffirming our commitment to transparency and accountability," he said.

Kenya and the United Kingdom reaffirmed their shared commitment to advancing stability and prosperity in the region.

Pressing security and economic issues affecting Kenya and its neighbours were also addressed.

The talks included a review of critical regional security matters, with a focus on the situation in Sudan, the planned drawdown of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), and the Tumaini High-Level Mediation Initiative in South Sudan.

Mudavadi expressed Kenya's appreciation for the UK’s steadfast support and active contributions to the peace-building efforts.

Mudavadi underscored Kenya’s commitment to stability and security in East Africa.

“Our partnership with the United Kingdom is central to achieving sustainable peace in the region. Kenya remains committed to playing a leading role in regional stability, with invaluable support from our international partners,” Mudavadi noted.

Discussions also covered Kenya's global security involvement, particularly through the Kenyan-led Multinational Security Support Mission in Haiti.

Mudavadi highlighted the need for sustained international financial, logistical, and moral support to ensure the mission’s success in bringing peace to Haiti.

On the future of the Commonwealth, they discussed a more inclusive approach to concessional funding that meets the needs of all member nations.

Mudavadi said that Kenya remains dedicated to further dialogue on reparations and economic initiatives, advocating for equitable support across Commonwealth countries.

According to Mudavadi, Kenya’s current economic challenges, particularly a funding deficit of Sh350 billion following the withdrawal of the 2024/2025 Finance Bill was also discussed.

He stated the shortfall has prompted the government to reassess development programmes and prioritise essential services amid budget constraints.

“This meeting reaffirms our strong partnership with the United Kingdom, built on mutual respect and a shared commitment to transparency, development, and stability,” Mudavadi noted.

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