Cabinet Secretary for Tourism Rebecca Miano has come under fire for misidentifying a visiting Togolese official upon his arrival in Mombasa. Miano posted on social media that she had welcomed "H.E. President Faure Gnassingbé of the Togolese Republic" at Moi International Airport. However, critics quickly pointed out that the person she welcomed was not Faure Gnassingbé but Jean-Lucien Savi de Tové, who has served as Togo's president since May 3, 2025.
The error occurred as Miano was welcoming foreign dignitaries attending the groundbreaking of the Lamu Oil Refinery. Miano described the event as a milestone for Kenya's energy and industrial ambitions. The post, which carried the hashtags #KaribuKenya and #MagicalKenya, highlighted Kenya's intention to balance large-scale infrastructure growth with the preservation of Swahili culture and coastal tourism.
Under Togo's new parliamentary system, Faure Gnassingbé now holds the position of president of the Council of Ministers, a role distinct from the head of state. Critics described Miano's mistake as a diplomatic blunder unworthy of someone in her position. They argued that it is essential for diplomats to know the guest's name and title and get them right.
After the errors were pointed out publicly, Miano edited her original post. However, the correction came amid a wave of criticism from Kenyans. Some questioned the substance of the visit itself, while others described it as a "diplomatic embarrassment" and "laziness."
The Lamu Oil Refinery groundbreaking was a significant event for Kenya, intended to drive industrial development and job creation. Miano described it as a "transformational energy hub." The event was held in Lamu, a UNESCO World Heritage site, reflecting Kenya's intention to balance growth with preservation.
The incident has sparked concerns over diplomatic protocol and the importance of accuracy in official communications. Miano's mistake has been widely reported, and the incident may have implications for Kenya's diplomatic relations with Togo.
The controversy comes at a time when Kenyan officials are being scrutinized for their public statements and actions. Recently, Kimilili MP Didmus Barasa defended his academic credentials and requested media outlets to use his titles correctly, amid questions about his academic history.
Key points
- Miano misidentified a visiting Togolese official as Faure Gnassingbé instead of Jean-Lucien Savi de Tové.
- The incident occurred during the welcoming of foreign dignitaries for the Lamu Oil Refinery groundbreaking.
- Miano faced criticism for her mistake, which was described as a diplomatic blunder and "laziness."
