Africa-Press – Kenya. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs witnessed a significant leadership transition yesterday as Kenya’s designate to Riyadh, Joseph Masila, officially handed over the reins of the Middle East Directorate to Lindsay Kiptiness.
Kiptiness is the Deputy Director General and Kenya’s former representative to Bangkok.
The ceremony, held at the Ministry’s headquarters in Nairobi, marked the culmination of Masila’s tenure at the Directorate, where he played a pivotal role in strengthening Kenya’s diplomatic ties with countries across the Middle East.
Masila expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to serve, highlighting the unwavering support of the Ministry’s top leadership.
He also recognised the collaboration of Middle Eastern ambassadors serving in Kenya and his counterparts at Kenyan Missions in the region for their commitment to enhancing bilateral relations.
“As I prepare to assume my new responsibilities in Riyadh, I am confident that Ambassador Kiptiness’s extensive diplomatic experience will continue to advance Kenya’s strategic interests in the Middle East,” Masila stated, acknowledging the importance of continuity in diplomatic engagement.
Taking over the Directorate, Kiptiness thanked Masila and his team for the warm reception and pledged to build on the strong foundation established during his predecessor’s tenure.
He emphasised the need for officers to approach challenges positively, take up leadership roles, and engage in effective succession planning.
“Every officer should strive to deepen their understanding of the issues they handle, demonstrate professionalism, and make a positive impact wherever they serve,” Kiptiness said.
He underscored the value of teamwork, cooperation, and maintaining a culture of continuous improvement to advance Kenya’s diplomatic agenda in the Middle East.
The handover is seen as a reinforcement of the Ministry’s commitment to sustaining and expanding Kenya’s engagement in the region, ensuring that diplomatic relations remain robust and mutually beneficial.
Stakeholders in the Ministry noted that the transition would enable fresh perspectives and renewed energy in addressing bilateral and multilateral issues.
Officials present at the ceremony highlighted the importance of continuity in foreign relations, particularly in regions such as the Middle East, where strategic partnerships in trade, security, and cultural diplomacy are key to advancing Kenya’s national interests.
The Middle East Directorate is a specialised division within the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs that focuses on managing and coordinating Kenya’s diplomatic, economic, and political relations with countries in the Middle East.
It serves as the central hub for policy formulation, implementation, and oversight of all engagements between Kenya and Middle Eastern nations.
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