The outgoing U.S. Ambassador to Kenya, Meg Whitman, has bid a heartfelt farewell to the country, expressing her deep appreciation for the friendships she made and the progress achieved during her tenure. In a video posted on her X account, Whitman thanked Kenyans for their hospitality, reflecting on her two-year experience in the country and the impactful journey she had in building stronger ties between the United States and Kenya.
Whitman, who arrived in Kenya in August 2022, described her time as ambassador as an honor. She acknowledged the privilege of working closely with Kenyans from all walks of life, highlighting the mutual respect and collaboration between the two nations. “As I close my time at the Embassy, I want to take a moment to say Asante sana to all the incredible friends I have made in Kenya,” Whitman said, adding that her interactions across the country left her with lasting memories and valuable insights.
Over the course of her tenure, Whitman was able to visit 28 counties across Kenya, where she witnessed firsthand the incredible work being done by Kenyans to improve their communities and the nation as a whole. She emphasized the role of these efforts in reinforcing the growing ties between the United States and Kenya. “Whenever I went around the country, I met amazing Kenyans working hard to create jobs, improve healthcare, build a stronger democracy, and strengthen ties between Kenyans and Americans,” she noted. Whitman commended the dedication and resilience of the Kenyan people, which she believes will continue to be the foundation for a prosperous future.
Whitman’s diplomatic tenure also witnessed significant milestones in the relationship between the U.S. and Kenya, particularly in areas of business, healthcare, and democracy. She took pride in sharing Kenya’s inspiring stories with the American public, noting that the country’s rapid development and dynamic economy have caught the attention of U.S. investors. “I had the privilege of connecting with U.S. business leaders looking to invest in the Silicon Savanna, and participating in what I would call the historic White House visit with President William Ruto,” she reflected.
At the beginning of her tenure, Whitman famously posed the question, “Why Africa, why Kenya?” This question, she said, has since been answered, as the world now recognizes Kenya’s immense potential. “Nobody is asking that anymore, the word is out about Kenya’s potential,” she affirmed. This transformation, she believes, is not only due to Kenya’s vibrant economy but also the collaborative efforts between the U.S. and Kenya to foster growth and stability.
Whitman also shared her admiration for Kenya’s natural beauty, noting that the country’s landscapes will always be dear to her. However, it is the people of Kenya that she holds most dear. “What I will always treasure most about my time in Kenya is the people who welcomed me with unparalleled hospitality and their passion for building a stronger US-Kenya relationship,” she said. She reflected on the friendships she built during her time in the country, emphasizing how these personal connections had a profound impact on her.
As she concludes her time as Ambassador, Whitman expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to serve. She remains optimistic about the future of U.S.-Kenya relations and confident that the enduring partnerships and friendships forged during her tenure will continue to grow. “I am thankful I had the opportunity to serve as the U.S. Ambassador to Kenya and for the lasting friendships I have made along the way, Asante Sana!” she concluded.
Meg Whitman’s farewell marks the end of a significant chapter in U.S.-Kenya relations, but her legacy of fostering collaboration, dialogue, and mutual respect will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the partnership between the two nations.
