The relevance of pan-africanism in shaping Kenya’s foreign policy today.
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Date
2013-08Author
Chepkwony, Pauline
Type
ThesisLanguage
enMetadata
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A number of scholars have argued that Africa today lacks a distinct Foreign Policy orientation.
Despite this assertion, it is also worth noting that during Africa’s struggle for independence,
African countries adopted Pan-Africanism as an ideology that would unite the African continent
as one in the fight against western imperialism. The struggle for Africa’s independence in the
early 1950’s can be regarded as one of the most important eras where African countries adopted
a similar policy and perhaps the only time African states demonstrated solidarity. Conversely,
the concept of Pan-Africanism influenced the formation of institutions such as the African Union
which acted as a platform for African States to actively engage in international relations both
within and outside the African Continent. The findings indicate that Pan-Africanism is quite
strong at the regional level due to the formation of regional economic blocs such as the EAC
which were founded on the principles of Pan-Africanism i.e self-reliance and economic
emancipation. However, national interest remains as the dominant factor in influencing Kenya’s
foreign policy. The paper emphasizes on the need to create stronger ties not only at the regional
level with other African countries but also with Kenyans in the Diaspora.
Citation
Degree of Masters of Arts in International StudiesPublisher
University of Nairobi Institute of Diplomacy and International Studies
Description
A research project submitted in partial fulfillment for the
requirements of masters of arts degree in international studies,
Institute of diplomacy and international studies
University of Nairobi