Nairobi, Kenya, November 14- Meg Whitman, the U.S. Ambassador to Kenya, announced her resignation on Wednesday, November 13.
In her farewell statement, Whitman highlighted the strides made during her time in Kenya, such as trade expansions, health partnerships, and enhanced security cooperation, which included Kenya being named the first Major Non-NATO Ally in sub-Saharan Africa.
Reflecting on her tenure, Whitman emphasized accomplishments like increased trade opportunities, health initiative expansions, and flood relief efforts.
She expressed pride in helping reduce non-immigrant visa wait times from over two years to about two months, remarking that trade, jobs, and U.S. investment in Kenya were at “historic highs” thanks to these efforts.
Grateful for the opportunity, she stated, “It has been an honor and privilege to serve the American people through strengthening our partnership with Kenya,” adding that the U.S.-Kenya relationship “is stronger than ever, and I am confident this trajectory will continue.”
Whitman also acknowledged her duty to step down with a new administration taking office in January, saying, “Like all U.S. ambassadors, I serve at the request of the President. The American people have spoken, and a new President will be inaugurated.”
As she prepares to leave, Whitman expressed confidence in the embassy’s continued work under Marc Dillard’s leadership as Chargé d’Affaires.
Her resignation announcement sparked varied responses from Kenyans on social media. Some reactions included:
“Let her go! She made people in Gigiri have sleepless nights.” – @just_kristenshee
“Why are Kenyans seeing this as unusual? All ambassadors worldwide will resign, and new ones will be appointed when a new U.S. president is elected.” – @anyshyf
“Second good news this year after Trump’s victory 🎉” – @cranb3rry_dor3
“Yes kidole sambusa… kaendeeeee 😂” – @emily_mbathi
“Kenya is God’s country, not your mother’s 😂” – @gitonga_teddy
“For Kenyan diplomats and political leaders, that will never happen. They must wait for termination, impeachment, or a cabinet change.” – @fredw632
“That embassy is a tragedy, even getting dates is difficult 😂” – @wakio_njuguna
“She was the UDA spokesperson anyway, let her go.” – @elizabethoyuchi
