Robert Godec, the outgoing US ambassador to Kenya took some time to pen down an emotional farewell message to Kenyans.
Godec, who has been in the country for six years lauded Kenyans as amazing, creative, and generous and revealed that he and his wife Lori loved every bit of the time they spent in the country.
“As I prepare to depart Kenya, I have been reflecting on this magical country and its remarkable people. My wife Lori and I have loved being here for the past six years. We’ve met amazing, creative, and generous Kenyans and marveled at your beautiful country,” He began in his farewell message.
He also took time to point out what he had achieved as the ambassador to Kenya noting down the improved ties between the Kenyan and US Governments.
Godec quoted Uhuru’s visit to the White House, former President Obama’s visit to Kenya in 2015 and First Lady Melania’s recent visit to Kenya.
“Together, we’ve done a lot. From the threads of mutual respect, shared values, and common goals, we have woven a rich tapestry of ties: government to government, business to business, NGO to NGO, and people to people. And our bonds are growing stronger,” Godec noted.
He noted the US’ continuous effort to support the Kenyan people through education, HIV/AIDS treatment, and job creation.
The outgoing ambassador also reaffirmed the US Government’s commitment towards supporting President Uhuru in his Big Four Agenda, good governance and the empowerment of women and people with disability.
He also noted the stronger commercial ties between the two countries, with the recent commissioning of the direct flights between Nairobi and New York, and the issuance of the five-year visas.
The direct flights, he highlighted, have helped improve trade ties and investment opportunities.
“We’ve brought thousands of entrepreneurs to Kenya, increasing trade and investment. American companies, seeing the vibrant Kenyan entrepreneurial spirit in world-class technologies, are boosting their engagement,” The outgoing Ambassador pointed out.
Godec also reassured Kenya of the US Government’s support towards the fight against Corruption and the illegal poaching of wild animals.
“We are helping to reduce poaching and protect elephants and other wildlife. And, we strongly support the fight against corruption and are working with the justice sector to strengthen the rule of law,” Godec wrote.
Before signing out, Godec took time to mourn the lives lost during the Dusit D2 terror Attack and promised that the US Government would continue to help in the fight against terror through information, technology, and training.
“We will never forget the sacrifices of the brave Kenyan men and women of the defense, security, and law enforcement agencies who work tirelessly to keep us all safe,” He concluded.
