US Ambassador to Kenya Kyle McCarter Resigns

US Ambassador to Kenya Kyle McCarter has announced his resignation from the position.

McCarter said he will officially leave office on Wednesday, January 20th, the same day US President-elect Joe Biden will take over from President Donald Trump.

“I am sad to announce that this privilege is coming to an end on January 20 when I will resign my post. Nevertheless, Kenya will continue to play a large role in my life,” McCarter said in an opinion piece published in local dailies on Sunday.

McCarter, who was nominated to the position by President Trump in 2018, added that it was an honor to serve as an ambassador to a country that he termed dear to him.

“Kenya has always been a part of my life. First through my father’s good works to bring health and education to children in need in Tharaka Nithi and then as Victoria and I continued his vision and Tharaka Nithi became a second home to us,” he said.

He added: “To return decades later as US Ambassador was the greatest honor of my life and an extraordinary opportunity to serve my country for the benefit of the American and Kenyan people.”

The former Illinois Senator pointed out that during his tenure, Kenya and the US strengthened trade ties, adding that Kenya was among the biggest beneficiaries of US aid.

“The outcome of our ongoing free trade agreement negotiations will make Kenya more competitive and stronger economically. Imagine the benefits of giving Kenyan businesses increased access to American markets and expanded choice, lower prices, and higher quality goods for consumers.”

In a farewell letter on Friday, McCarter noted: “As I reflect on my time as Ambassador, I continue to believe that Kenya should no longer be just a beneficiary of foreign aid, but a benefactor to the rest of East Africa.”