Kenya Officially Kicks off Candidature Campaigns for the UN Security Council Seat 2021-2022
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The official launch of Kenya’s campaign as the African Union endorsed candidate in the non -permanent category of the United Nations Security Council for the period 2021-2022 was held on the 16th September 2019 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The event was graced by His Excellency Gedu Andargachew Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, Kwesi Quartey deputy Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Commissioners, Ambassadors and Permanent Representatives and members of the Diplomatic Corps in Ethiopia among other dignitaries.
Welcoming Kenya to Addis Ababa Foreign Minister Gedu Andargachew congratulated Kenya for being chosen to represent Africa and promised to work closely with Kenya to ensure Africa interests are safeguarded. Cabinet Secretary Amb Monica Juma expressed her delight for the honour that was bestowed on Kenya by the African Union in endorsing Kenya as the Africa’s candidate for the seat.
“Kenya is privileged to be Africa’s Candidate for a Non- Permanent Seat at the United Nations Security Council. We accept this high calling with gratitude and a deep sense of purpose”. — Cabinet Secretary Amb Monica Juma
She acknowledged the high responsibility that comes with the position but assured that Kenya will serve and faithfully defend the interests of Africa as a commitment to Africa our motherland and to Pan-Africanism. She noted that Africa’s efforts to embrace and promote democratic practices have led to greater stability, good governance, as well as political and social inclusion with good progress being achieved in governance across the continent.
“We have made steady progress since the Arusha Conference of 1990 dubbed “Putting the People First” which adopted the African Charter for Popular Participation in Development and Transformation.” — Cabinet Secretary Amb Monica Juma
Between 2018 and 2019, elections in 31 African countries have progressed well and where internal differences are occurred they have been settled peacefully through elections, open debate, accountable governance, and the rule of law.
The Cabinet Secretary unveiled the campaign logo and the ten pointers which form Kenya’s core agenda during its term at the Security Council themed around Peace and Security for sustainable development Namely: promoting a culture of peace through building bridges, tolerance and respect for human dignity in an inclusive and consultative manner; Regional Peace and Security; Justice, Human Rights and Democracy; global collaboration in global peace keeping operations, leverage on gender disparity by engaging women in peace and security, climate change and empowerment and inclusion of the youth.
She promised that Kenya will be a dependable partner and will endeavour to cultivate a climate of trust and transparency that promotes the respect for international rules and norms; sensitivity to each other’s interests; peaceful resolution of conflicts; and increased cooperation in global Peace and Security efforts. H.E Kwesi Quartey, the deputy chairperson of the African Union Commission expressed his confidence on the ability of Kenya that it will certainly represent Africa’s interest.
