The Role of Cultural Diplomacy in Fostering Kenya’s National Image

Abstract

The study examined the role played by cultural diplomacy in fostering Kenya’s international image. Cultural diplomacy is the practice of exchanging aspects of culture, art, information and ideas with an objective of fostering mutual understanding. In promotion of Kenya’s image globally, the country uses cultural diplomacy among other strategies. In justification of the study, as a subject cultural diplomacy has not been given much scholarly attention. The study seeks to contribute on knowledge to enhance the use cultural diplomacy in the country. The study was based on soft power theory as its analytical framework. Soft power enables a country influence other by virtue of attraction. Qualitative and quantitative research approaches were used in collecting data. Primary data was collected using questionnaires and secondary data was collected from books, journals and relevant articles. The collected data is presented narratively and in a tabular form. Three cultural diplomacy tools were used in the study: sports, arts, and language. The study found that sports, arts, and language are instrumental in promoting cultural diplomacy in Kenya. The leading cultural activities preferred by most of the respondents were sporting events, cultural festivals, art exhibitions and workshops. Sporting events were the most preferred because Kenya is a leader in athletics and therefore, such events attract global attention. The use of Kiswahili language globally would be key in enhancing Kenya’s foreign image. Cultural diplomacy is critical in international relations and plays a great role in building relations globally. The study recommends the Kenyan government to actively use sports and Kiswahili as a cultural diplomatic tool in pursuit of the best interest for Kenya and the region.