United States Ambassador to Kenya Meg Whitman has announced her resignation.
Whitman, who has served in the envoy role since 2022, conveyed her decision in a statement on Wednesday, stating that she had submitted her resignation to President Joe Biden.
Her announcement comes just days after Donald Trump’s victory in the recently held US elections.
“Today, I announced to my team at the U.S. embassy that I submitted my resignation to President Biden. It has been an honour and privilege to serve the American people through strengthening our partnership with Kenya,” she said.
Furthermore, Whitman expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve as Ambassador and reflected on the significant strides made during her tenure in strengthening U.S.-Kenya relations.
“I am proud of leading a people-centred agenda that saves lives, increases security, and creates economic opportunities for Kenyans and Americans. From delivering emergency funding to alleviate catastrophic flooding in 2023 to the ongoing fight against malaria, HIV, and MPOX, the U.S government prioritizes the health and welfare of our friends in Kenya.”
Whitman also underscored the close collaboration between the two nations in fostering economic development.
“When I arrived in 2022, I focused on expanding these ties with my “Why Africa, Why Kenya?” presentation to American companies and entrepreneurs. Trade, jobs, and U.S. investment in Kenya are at historic highs because of our efforts,” she said.
“We also responded to the skyrocketing demand for our consular services, reducing wait times for non-immigrant visa appointments from more than two years to about two months, among other enhancements. Like all U.S. ambassadors, I serve at the request of the President.”
She further acknowledged the ongoing efforts of U.S. embassy staff and expressed confidence in the future of Nairobi and Washington’s bilateral relationship.
“I have no doubt that our 60 years of partnership will continue to strengthen and serve Americans and Kenyans as we aim to build more prosperous, healthy, secure, and democratic nations,” she said.
“Our relations are stronger than ever, and I am confident this trajectory will continue. I will depart Kenya full of gratitude for the team that has worked tirelessly on my behalf, for the opportunity to serve my country, and for the friendship offered by the government and the people of the beautiful Republic of Kenya.”
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