The National Assembly Committee on Defence Intelligence and Foreign Relations on Thursday recommended to the House approval of three diplomatic nominees picked by President William Ruto last December.
The three diplomats are Ababu Namwamba as the Permanent Representative of Kenya to the United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP), Andrew Karanja as Kenya’s Ambassador to Brazil, and Noor Gabow as Consul-General to Port-au-Prince, Haiti.
The three nominees were vetted on January 10 by the committee on their suitability to fill the key diplomatic tasks.
While submitting the reports to the National Assembly, the Committee confirmed that the nominees had been thoroughly vetted based on their academic credentials, experience and background.
The committee has recommended the appointment of Namwamba to serve as the permanent representative to the UNEP and the United Nations Office in Nairobi (UNON).
Namwamba is a long-time diplomat and legal expert who holds a Master of Law in International Legal Studies from the American University, Washington College of Law. Previously, he served as Chief Administrative Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and represented Kenya in key global forums, including the United Nations General Assembly.
Namwamba’s leadership experience and advocacy in global governance, with his involvement in Kenya’s successful bid for a non-permanent seat in the United Nations Security Council, places him in a unique place to handle diplomatic ties.
This position is crucial as it involves representing Kenya in discussions related to environmental policies and sustainable development initiatives at a global level.
The second nominee, Karanja who was nominated for the role of ambassador to Brazil was the cabinet secretary of Agriculture and Livestock.
This position entails fostering bilateral relations between Kenya and Brazil, focusing on trade, investment opportunities, cultural exchanges, and collaboration in various sectors such as agriculture and technology.
Gabow is proposed for the position of consul general in Haiti. This is an inaugural post for the man who was largely involved in the preparations before the deployment of Kenyan troops to the Caribbean state.
The responsibilities associated with this role include providing consular services to Kenyan citizens in Haiti, promoting Kenyan interests abroad, and enhancing diplomatic relations between Kenya and Haiti.
Gabow boosts over three decades of experience in law enforcement and diplomacy. He holds a Master of Governance, Peace, and Security Studies from African Nazarene University and has received advanced training in International Strategic Leadership.
The recommendations made by the Committee are significant as they reflect strategic decisions aimed at strengthening Kenya’s diplomatic presence internationally.
Following these recommendations, it will be up to the House to deliberate and vote on whether to approve these appointments.
These appointments are pivotal for enhancing Kenya’s international relations and addressing global challenges through effective representation.
