The Application Of Cultural Diplomacy In Enhancing Kenya’s International Image.

Abstract

This research project sets out to investigate the role of cultural diplomacy as a tool for enhancing Kenya‘s international image. Cultural diplomacy may be described as a course of action(s), which are based on and utilize the exchange of ideas, values, traditions and other aspects of culture or identity, whether to strengthen relationships, enhance socio-cultural cooperation or promote national interests. Cultural relations, is the mutual exchange of culture between peoples to develop long-term relationships, trust, and understanding for the purpose of generating genuine goodwill and influence abroad. The study aims to establish how cultural diplomacy is advancing Kenya‘s image. Specifically the study seeks to answer the following questions: what is the role of cultural diplomacy enhancing Kenya‘s international image . What role music, culture and sports play as a aspect of cultural diplomacy in branding Kenya? The justification for the study is that Cultural diplomacy has not been the subject of as much scholarly attention and Scholarship about diplomacy - a more traditional field – has paid little attention to cultural diplomacy, and despite the recent exponential growth in scholarship of the various schools of International Relations Theory, Cultural diplomacy has been almost entirely ignored by the discipline of International Relations. The study will therefore contribute to knowledge and will be useful to policy makers, especially those in government to make better use of the practice of cultural diplomacy, to enhance effectiveness in reaching wider and diverse audiences. The study employs liberal theory as the backbone of this study. This study uses qualitative research approach and majorly utilizes primary data and secondary data as the backup which includes; collection from books, journal articles and periodicals. For primary data is collected using questionnaires and interview guide. The collected data is sorted and analyzed using document analysis and presented in narrative form as well as in tables and charts. This study argues that cultural diplomacy is very important for Africa and concludes that Cultural diplomacy plays a crucial role in building relations and the image of a state., It serves as an effective instrument in supporting national foreign policy objectives. Cultural diplomacy supports Kenya‘s foreign policy goals, to combat stereotyping, develop mutual understanding, and advance national reputation and relationships across the globe. Culture keeps doors open in difficult times, where cultural diplomacy provides a safe and constructive forum for relationship-building or easing relations when they get strained. Among others, the study recommendations that Prior to constructing a cultural diplomacy initiative, the relevant agencies, artists and other actors must fully understand the cultural identity of the nation.