2. Regional and Foreign Policy

Kenya’s independence is part of the country’s heritage that informs the conduct of her affairs on the world stage as a sovereign state. The right to a distinctive cultural identity based on the values and laws contained in our heritage are the foundation upon which Kenya’s foreign policy is grounded. We are bound by the internationally recognized norms of respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of other states, good neighbourliness and co-operation in solving the world’s problems.

FP acknowledges co-operation with international bodies, such as the United Nations (UN), The Commonwealth, African Union (AU), Common Market of East and Southern Africa States (COMESA), The East African Community (EAC), and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGADD) to protect the country’s vital interests and for mutually beneficial purposes such as political co-operation, trade and defence.

FORD People would like to see a proactive Kenya that has influence in the political and socio-economic affairs on the world stage and, in particular, in the region.

1. Place democratic values, human rights and good governance at the top of the country’s foreign policy agenda and work with Kenya’s partners in the UN, AU, Commonwealth, COMESA and EAC to make it more effective in promoting security, good governance and democratic values.

2. Seek to solve the challenges facing Africa such as poverty, disease, conflict and food security through local initiatives

3. Enhance political cohesion and stability among neighbouring states through existing regional organizations such as IGADD, COMESA and EAC and thereby contribute to sustainable development in the region.

4. Pay attention to conflict prevention by not only addressing traditional threats to security but also focusing on the consequences of environmental degradation, resource depletion, volatile markets and unfair trade practices.

5. Aim to stimulate economic growth in the region with particular reference to developing countries through the promotion of genuine liberal trade under the World Trade Organization with a view to accruing benefits for all member countries.

6. Advocate for debt relief/cancellation and effective aid policies so as to address the challenges faced by developing countries growing their economies.

7. Cautiously encourage private enterprise and free trade based on the principles of fair trade and equitable distribution of profits with all nations and MNCs, except trade in commodities that are of a strategic nature and which can compromise the country’s vital interests and national security.

8. Not to condone, give sanctuary to, assist or otherwise co-operate in any way with those involved in terrorism and to have no dealings with organizations or persons that engage in terrorist activities aimed deliberately against innocent civilians.

9. Acknowledge the fact that the world has become a global village due to the effects of globalization and to promote international cultural exchanges that grow friendliness and tolerance among individuals and eliminate social ills such as racism, discrimination, ethnic and religious intolerance.