The Effect of Digital Technologies on Kenya’s Foreign Policy.

Abstract

Diplomacy defines states foreign policy guided by how they relate with each other. This article strives to outline the effect of digital technologies on Kenya’s foreign policy. It is embedded in the constructivism theory by Alexander Wendt, and the digital transformation theory. To achieve this, a mixed research approach research techniques were used to get views from a select population from the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs. In-depth interviews were also carried out from key personnel at the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs. The study established that digital technologies and platforms are important in transforming Kenya’s foreign policy by enhancing efficiency, visibility, and responsiveness in diplomatic practice. The findings showed that 70% of respondents affirm that there is improved efficiency and another 65% expressed confidence in strengthened cybersecurity despite of glaring challenges appertaining to trainings. This research established that Kenya’s foreign policy is becoming increasingly effective in leveraging digital innovation for global engagement, regional security, and evidence-based decision-making. Nonetheless, there are critical institutional gaps in governance, coordination, and capacity building that must be addressed to sustain progress. Strengthening training programs, harmonizing communication protocols, and developing comprehensive digital diplomacy policies are essential for consolidating these gains. Digital technologies have become indispensable enablers of Kenya’s foreign policy, but their success ultimately depends on human capacity, institutional alignment, and strategic integration with traditional diplomacy. It is therefore worthwhile to say that Kenya’s ediplomacy should be enhanced to align with the advanced technological changes through comprehensive capacity-building, improved institutional coordination, and the development of clear policy frameworks and standardized protocols. Proper cybersecurity measures should be put in place to avert the rising information distortion and disinformation