The Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) and the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs (MFA) held a high-level consultative meeting today at the KAA Boardroom to discuss matters affecting diplomatic and protocol operations at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) and other key airport facilities.
The meeting was chaired by the Acting Managing Director of KAA, Dr. Mohamed Gedi, and brought together senior officials from both institutions. The Ministry’s delegation was led by Ambassador Josphat Maikara, EBS, Director General for Political and Diplomatic Affairs, and Mr. Henry Wambuma, Acting Chief of Protocol.
The consultative session focused on strengthening collaboration between the two institutions to improve diplomatic services and operational efficiency. Key issues discussed included the challenges currently facing the diplomatic community at the airport and strategies to streamline their clearance and movement in line with international standards.
The establishment of a United Nations Humanitarian Hub and the request for a dedicated Red Cross Logistical Hub were also on the agenda, with both sides recognizing the importance of enhancing Kenya’s capacity to support humanitarian and emergency operations.
Discussions further explored the implementation of an Integrated Protocol Management System, aimed at digitizing and harmonizing protocol procedures across various agencies to improve coordination and service delivery.
Emphasis was placed on adherence to the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations (1961), particularly regarding the rights and privileges of diplomatic personnel operating in Kenya.
The meeting also highlighted the need to revise the Kenya National Civil Aviation Security Program, in collaboration with the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA), to align with evolving global security standards.
Enhancing the security of the State Pavilion was identified as a priority, alongside improving, expanding, and ensuring optimal usage of VIP and protocol lounges at airports across the country to provide a more seamless experience for high-level dignitaries and diplomatic guests.
Both institutions reaffirmed their commitment to sustained engagement and partnership to ensure that Kenya’s international airports continue to uphold the highest standards in diplomatic protocol and service delivery.
