The Kenyan Embassy in Bern, Switzerland, has announced its permanent closure, effective November 30. In a communiqué dated November 9, the Embassy notified Kenyan nationals that the Consular section will cease operations. Members seeking to collect processed documents have been advised to do so before the closure, while those who have applied for services from November 1 will be contacted with directives on accessing their documents.
The closure is part of the Kenyan Government's rationalization of its diplomatic footprint globally. Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing'Oei stated that some missions will face closure while new ones open. He assured Kenyans that they will continue to receive proximate services despite this rationalization process. The Kenyan Embassy in Bern was officially established and opened on April 2, 2020.
The Embassy has expressed gratitude to its clients, the Kenyan community in Switzerland, and its friends and partners for their support over the years. Information on alternative consular arrangements for Kenyans in Switzerland will be shared through the Embassy's website and official channels. This move is expected to affect bilateral ties between Kenya and Switzerland, which have been in place since Kenya's independence in 1963.
Switzerland has an official presence in Kenya and primarily imports agricultural products from the country, while exporting pharmaceutical and chemical products. The closure of the Embassy may lead to changes in these trade relations. Kenyan nationals in Switzerland will need to seek alternative arrangements for consular services.
The Kenyan Government has not provided further details on the rationalization process or which other missions may face closure. However, PS Korir Sing'Oei emphasized that Kenyans will continue to receive proximate services. The Embassy's closure is seen as a significant development in Kenya's diplomatic efforts.
The closure of the Kenyan Embassy in Switzerland is part of a broader effort to re-evaluate Kenya's diplomatic presence globally. This move may have implications for Kenya's international relations and trade agreements. The Embassy's shutdown will be completed by the end of November.
The Kenyan community in Switzerland will need to adapt to the new arrangements for consular services. The Embassy's website and official channels will provide updates on alternative arrangements. The closure marks a significant change in Kenya's diplomatic landscape.
Key points
- The Kenyan Embassy in Bern, Switzerland, will close permanently on November 30.
- The closure is part of a rationalization of Kenya's diplomatic footprint globally.
- Alternative consular arrangements for Kenyans in Switzerland will be shared through the Embassy's website and official channels.
