Public Diplomacy as a Tool of Foreign Policy: a Critical Analysis of Opportunities and Challenges for Kenya

Abstract

The aim of the study was to analyze critically public diplomacy as a tool of foreign policy with a specific reference to opportunities and challenges for Kenya. Specifically, the study sought to understand how the applications of public diplomacy by various actors affect foreign policy goals in Kenya. This study relied on library research supplemented by informant interviews. The study adopted a case study descriptive design, based on the quantitative procedure in an attempt to critically analyze the opportunities and challenges of Public diplomacy as a tool of foreign policy for Kenya. Analysis of data was done in form of content analysis. The study established that there are many public diplomacy prospects in Kenya but they remain untapped. It also established that the media is a very important tool of public diplomacy and can either be an asset or a liability depending on how it is applied. The media plays an important role in public diplomacy, shaping public opinion and creating international perceptions of the domestic situation and capabilities of a state. As such, media should not be ignored but should be engaged, trained and informed as well. The study also noted that the multiplicity of interests, actors, opportunities as well as conflicts in the world, makes it imperative to seek more partnerships and cooperation to enhance mutual understanding. The study recommends for openness and transparency for fruitful public diplomacy engagement by the different actors for positive outcomes. The study also recommended that there is need for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to establish a Public diplomacy directorate and come up with a written public diplomacy policy for proper coordination of public diplomacy activities in the country.