The Role of Kenya’s Diplomatic Missions in Economic Development: Case of Uganda

Abstract

The role of diplomatic missions in the economic integration and development in Kenya has not been studied in research. There exist significant accounts of the economic element of diplomatic missions but based on the perspective of other countries other than Kenya. The research intends to establish the explicit role of the missions to the economic development in Kenya. A descriptive survey will be the primary methodology, which will utilize questionnaires and interview schedules as the instruments for data collection. Thematic analysis will be used for data analysis to establish economic integration and development themes from the responses of diplomats and conveniently selected ministry officials. The study seeks to establish if Kenya's diplomatic mission to Uganda has promoted International Trade, Foreign Direct Investment and Industrialization. The Economic Diplomacy theory guides the study and ensures that the understanding of the role of diplomatic missions on economic integration is outside the narrow state centric political agendas. It is evident in the findings that the Kenya's diplomatic mission to Uganda has played a crucial role in promoting International Trade, Foreign Direct Investment and Industrialization. Recommendation for better policies in relation to foreign issues on trade matters is important. Also, further studies should be conducted in order to fill the literature gaps that are there on the role of diplomatic missions in promoting economic development.