AN ASSESSMENT OF THE ROLE OF DIGIPLOMACY IN KENYA’S FOREIGN RELATIONS

Abstract

This study explored the relatively modern field of e-diplomacy. also called e-diplomacy or digital diplomacy. Its primary objective was to assess the role of diplomacy in the foreign affairs of Kenya. The study was founded on the specific objectives of examining the nature of diplomacy in Kenya, evaluating the role of diplomacy in the foreign relations of Kenya and analyzing the strategies implemented to enhance foreign relations through diplomacy in Kenya. In spite of the guarantees that diplomacy gives in for the practice of foreign relations, little has been studied and is known, I any case, from a diagnostic point of view, how advanced diplomacy strategy works in shaping foreign relations, with what level of achievement, and wherein lay its confinements. This study addressed this problem and also united leading researchers and experienced diplomats with the end goal being deliberately distinguishing various strands of research on digital diplomacy and creating a consensus on how it shapes foreign relations which is a problem yet to be addressed by contemporary research. The study utilized the Uses and Gratifications Theory. This theory contends that the beneficiaries of information/the audiences, effectively select the kinds of correspondence and media content they will expend so as to satisfy different mental needs. The primary motivation behind this theory is to clarify how and why various individuals utilize various media noticing that every one of these types of diplomacy are forms of media. This research was a mixed study. That is to mean that it was both quantitative and qualitative. The study adopted the descriptive research design through the use of an assessment. As revealed in this study, diplomacy conveys with it the two shots and challenges; From one point of view, the internet systems administration is outfitting countries with more information to handle social issues. On the other hand, different threats are identified with the use and reliance on the digital communication as a contraption of diplomacy. That notwithstanding, there is need to adopt multiple diplomacy means to enhance foreign affairs between and among countries as e-diplomacy is an important aspect in shaping foreign relations.