The Commonwealth of The Bahamas and the Republic of Kenya establish Diplomatic Relations
20th January, 2024.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is pleased to announce the signing of a communique formalising diplomatic relations between the Commonwealth of The Bahamas and the Republic of Kenya on the margins of the 19th Non Aligned Summit. The communique was signed by the Minister of Immigration and National Insurance, the Hon. Alfred Sears and Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs of Kenya, Dr. Musalia Mudavadi. This event marks a significant step towards fostering deeper mutual understanding, cooperation, and collaboration between the two nations as part of The Bahamas government’s turn to Sub-Saharan and South-South cooperation.
Key Highlights:
Opening of Missions: The Bahamas and Kenya spoke about the importance of representation abroad. Establishing diplomatic missions in each other’s capitals, with embassies to be opened in Nairobi and Nassau when feasible. This physical presence is an important commitment to building strong and lasting ties between the two countries.
Strengthening Bilateral Relations: The signing of the communique emphasizes the shared commitment to enhancing existing bilateral relations. Both nations recognize the importance of cultivating a robust diplomatic, economic, and cultural relationship for the benefit of their nationals. There are currently no visa restrictions between The Bahamas and Kenya.
(L-R) Minister The Hon. Alfred Sears of The Bahamas and Dr. Musalia Mudavadi of Kenya
Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Technical Cooperation: The Bahamas and Kenya are considering the signing of an MOU on technical consultations. This strategic framework will provide a structured platform for regular dialogue on key regional and international issues of mutual interest. The Bahamas currently has several MOUs with countries in Sub-Saharan Africa including South Africa and Botswana.
Collaboration on Security Support for Haiti: The Bahamas and Kenya will continue their collaboration within the framework of the United Nations Multinational Security Support Mission to provide essential security support and capacity building for the Republic of Haiti. This joint effort underscores the commitment to promoting peace, stability, and development in the region.
Academic Partnership: Recognizing the importance of education and research, Minster Sears, who served previously as Minister of Education, emphasised the importance of Bahamian and Kenyan Universities engaging in collaborative research activities and of student exchanges. An academic partnership, he said, could help foster knowledge exchange, innovation, and the development of human capital in both nations.
Climate Adaptation and Mitigation: The Bahamas and Kenya, facing common challenges related to climate change, committed to closely share expertise and best practices on climate adaptation and mitigation. The development of resilient strategies to address the impacts of climate change through bilateral dialogue is a significant objective of climate diplomacy.
Trade and Investment: Acknowledging the economic potential between the two countries, The Bahamas and Kenya are eager to explore opportunities for trade and investment. Both countries will work towards creating an environment conducive to fostering economic partnerships, encouraging investments, and facilitating the exchange of goods and services.
The NAM Summit was the ideal location to concretise bilateral relations. NAM values are guided by the principles and purposes of the United Nations Charter and International Law, particularly the respect and promotion of international peace and security, equality among states, due respect for national sovereignty and territorial integrity, independence and international treaties, and the non-interference in international affairs of states. These values represent the foundation of The Bahamas’ diplomatic relations. The Bahamas intends to run for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for the period 2032-2032. Kenya and The Bahamas share the view that the UN Security Council needs to be more proactive and inclusive to prevent the complex crises we are currently witnessing in the international system