The Role of Italian Organizations in Enhancing Bilateral Relations Between Kenya and Italy

Abstract

With the rise of Globalization, the need for cordial relationships with other countries has become an integral part of every country‟s mandate. Countries have learnt to forge mutually beneficial relationships to facilitate growth and development. Failed relations can have dire consequences for the countries in question. The Bilateral relations between Italy and Kenya have considerably been on the rise with possible inflow to both countries in culture, governance approach, social capital developments, investments, and international mutual participations. However, the optimal net-worth of these relations has not been realized. This study sought to determine the role of Italian organizations in enhancing bilateral relations between Kenya and Italy. The study further sought to objectively focus on the current-status of affairs, factors inhibiting robust Kenya-Italy bilateral relations and the role of Italian Organizations in enhancing the Kenya-Italy bilateral relations. The study applied a case study research design with collection of data undertaken through a structured questionnaire and secondary data focusing on a target of 200 respondents for the collection of data, analysis, conclusion, and recommendations. The study found that there are currently many areas of cooperation between Kenya and Italy and therefore the bilateral relations between the two countries are in a positive trajectory. Currently Kenya and Italy have cooperation agreements in trade, agriculture, water and sanitation, education, health, rural and slum development, infrastructure, and security. However, cooperation between the two countries is not at optimum levels because Italian organizations have not fully enhanced the relations between the two countries. Factors such as political unrest in Kenya especially during electioneering periods, corruption, low per capita income in Kenya, high trade tariffs, unfavourable foreign policy, economic slow-down in the two countries, fluctuation in exchange rates, terrorism and other forms of crime such as drug trafficking and money laundering have also inhibited robust Kenya-Italy relations. The study concluded that Italian organizations can fully enhance the Kenya -Italy relations through increasing Foreign Direct Investments in Kenya, helping the Kenya Government in the fight against terrorism, insecurity and corruption, increasing cultural integration activities, enhancing cooperation in joint scientific projects, coming up with initiatives that foster peace and political stability in the country, and increasing development projects in various sectors in the country.