Sing’oei Defends Kenya Embassy in Rabat Over Language Capacity

Kenya’s Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary, Dr Korir Sing’oei, has defended the country’s embassy in Rabat, rejecting claims that the mission lacks adequate language capacity or an official translator.

Sing’oei said the level of cooperation between Kenya and Morocco in recent years demonstrated that the two countries were communicating effectively. He questioned how the relationship could have advanced so quickly if the embassy was unable to support effective communication.

He pointed to the expansion of bilateral cooperation since Kenya opened its mission in Rabat in December 2023. High-level visits and structured dialogue have helped accelerate collaboration between the two countries across several sectors.

One of the key developments was Moroccan Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch’s visit to Nairobi during the Africa Forward Summit in May 2026. 

Sing’oei described the visit as an important step in strengthening relations between Kenya and Morocco. He also highlighted the first Kenya–Morocco Joint Commission for Cooperation, held in April, where the two countries signed 11 bilateral instruments. 

The agreements cover agriculture, health, justice, fisheries, gender equality, culture, higher education, sports and wildlife conservation. They also provide for scholarships, internships and the sharing of technical expertise.

Economic cooperation is also expanding, with Kenya and Morocco seeking to increase trade and investment. The two countries are also discussing improved air connectivity, including the possible resumption of direct flights between Nairobi and Rabat.

The Rabat embassy was established as part of Kenya’s broader effort to strengthen its diplomatic presence in North Africa and expand its international partnerships. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has identified trade, investment and people-to-people engagement among the mission’s priorities, alongside its traditional diplomatic responsibilities.

Sing’oei’s defence comes amid questions about staffing and language capacity at the mission. He maintained that the embassy remains fully operational and is playing an active role in advancing Kenya’s interests in Morocco and the wider North African region.