Mudavadi Stresses Continuity in U.S. Ties After G20 Withdrawal

The directive, which led to the cancellation of U.S. Vice President JD Vance’s planned visit to Kenya later this month, has drawn international attention, yet Nairobi remains composed, emphasizing that cooperation with Washington will continue through established diplomatic channels.

Vice President Vance had been scheduled to lead the U.S. delegation to the G20 before traveling to Nairobi for high-level talks on trade, security, and investment. While the visit will no longer take place this month, Kenyan officials say engagement between the two nations remains on a strong footing.

Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, H.E. Musalia Mudavadi, reaffirmed Kenya’s confidence in the enduring partnership between Nairobi and Washington.

“Kenya and the United States enjoy a deep and historic relationship anchored on mutual respect, shared democratic values, and common interests,” said H.E. Mudavadi. “While scheduling changes sometimes occur in diplomacy, our cooperation with the United States continues robustly across all sectors, from trade and security to education and technology.”

He added that Kenya remains focused on advancing strategic engagements that benefit both nations and the wider region.

“Our commitment to constructive dialogue and international collaboration is unwavering. Kenya will continue to be a reliable partner in promoting peace, prosperity, and shared growth,” he stated.

Diplomatic observers in Nairobi note that Kenya’s stature as a regional hub for peace, innovation, and global investment positions it well to navigate shifting international currents. They also see this moment as an opportunity for Kenya to reinforce its leadership role on the continent, engaging multilaterally with both traditional and emerging partners.

The G20 Summit in Johannesburg, expected to spotlight global economic resilience and sustainable development, now proceeds without Washington’s delegation. Nonetheless, Kenya’s focus remains forward-looking, advancing African priorities and maintaining its steady course as a trusted voice in global diplomacy.

As one analyst put it, “Kenya is showing that true partnerships transcend single events, they rest on dialogue, respect, and a shared vision for prosperity.”