United States Ambassador to Kenya, Meg Whitman has resigned.
Announcing her departure from the role, Whitman disclosed that she had submitted her resignation to US President Joe Biden.
She expressed that it has been an honor and privilege to serve the American people by strengthening ties with Kenya.
“Today, I announced to my team at the U.S. embassy that I submitted my resignation to President Biden. It has been an honor and privilege to serve the American people through strengthening our partnership with Kenya.”
Reflecting on her achievements in the role, Meg underscored that she effectively led a people-centre agenda that saved lives, enhanced security and created economic opportunities for Kenyans and Americans.
“I am proud of leading a people-centered 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,” she said.
Whitman additionally underscored other achievements such as the decision to include Kenya as the America’s first major non-NATO ally in sub-saharan Africa.
“This year, the United States elevated Kenya as its first Major Non-NATO ally in sub-Saharan Africa, reflecting the importance our countries place on standing shoulder to shoulder to protect our shared democratic values and enhance security,” she stated.
Whitman also reflected that her continuous efforts have opened the door for more American companies to do business with Kenya and expand ties. She further reflected that wait times for non-immigrant visa appointments significantly reduced from more that two years to two months under her tenure.
“My efforts also opened the door for more American companies to do business in Kenya. 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.
“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,” she said.
Adding;
“Like all U.S. ambassadors, I serve at the request of the President. The American people
have spoken, and a new President will be inaugurated in January. I wish him and his new
team success. Our Embassy benefits from highly skilled Kenyan and American employees
who will continue their efforts under the leadership of Chargé d’Affaires Marc Dillard to
advance the shared goals on which our bilateral relationship has long been grounded.”
Further, Whitman expressed optimism and confidence that the 60 years of partnership Kenya enjoys with the US, will continue to strengthen and serve the citizens of both countries. She also expressed immense gratitude to her team for working diligently under her leadership.
“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.
“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,” she added.
Whitman’s resignation comes days after Donald Trump was elected as the 47th President of the United States.
