Browsing by Author "Maingi Natalynne N"

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    Leadership Change and the Implementation of Kenya’s Foreign Policy
    (NDU-K, 2024) Maingi Natalynne N
    Leadership changes affect foreign policy execution worldwide. This study explored how leadership transitions affect foreign policy in the US, Russia, UK, SA and Kenya. These countries showed how presidential and legislative leadership transfers affect foreign policy and international relations. The study examined the impact of emerging leadership practices on Kenya's foreign policy, the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs' leadership culture, the adequacy of leadership operationalized to drive Kenya's foreign policy from 2002 to 2022 and the extent to which leadership structure was responsive to Kenya's foreign policy. The study objectives sought to determine the influence of electoral cycles on Foreign Policy, assess the influence of political ideologies on Foreign Policy Implementation, examine the influence of diplomacy on Foreign Policy Implementation and analyse the intervening role of bureaucratic offices in the implementation of Foreign Policy. The study focused on how leadership transitions might have affected Kenya's national interests and foreign policy priorities using Scott (2005) institutionalism theory. The theory noted that institutions, encompassing formal and informal rules, norms and procedures, greatly influenced the behaviour and choices of political actors. Leadership changes and foreign policy outcomes were examined using a descriptive case study design. Comprehensive analysis included qualitative and quantitative methods. Kenya's government transitions, foreign policy decisions, diplomatic contacts and regional/global roles were the focus of the study. The target population was 388 which included top officials from the office of the president, parliamentarians, international relations experts and MFDA officials. Proportionate sampling was employed to sample 30% of the target population. Interview guides, questionnaires and document analysis tools were research tools. A pilot study established tool validity and reliability. Thematic analysis for qualitative data and statistical analysis for quantitative data were used. The study followed ethical research norms, including informed consent, anonymity, confidentiality, correct citation and institutional clearances. Findings of the study extensively explored the complex interplay of political, economic, technological and cultural factors influencing Kenya's foreign policy. Leadership changes, electoral cycles and psychological factors emerged as significant drivers, impacting foreign direct investment, peace and state integrity. While economic considerations, technological advancements and cultural diplomacy initiatives were generally viewed positively, challenges such as limited technology access and potential cultural misunderstandings were identified. The study acknowledged the generally successful nature of Kenya's diplomatic efforts, citing positive perceptions of effectiveness among respondents. Bureaucratic offices were recognized as pivotal in foreign policy implementation, with recommendations focusing on achieving a more consistent foreign policy aligned with national interests, leveraging economic, technological and cultural opportunities, addressing identified challenges and streamlining bureaucratic processes for enhanced effectiveness, communication and collaboration. The study concluded by emphasizing the importance of understanding and navigating the multifaceted nature of factors shaping Kenya's foreign policy for successful outcomes and strategic formulation.