Kenya has stirred diplomatic relations with Serbia, which is often backed by Russia and China at the United Nations level, after President William Ruto recognised Kosovo as an independent state on Wednesday.
According to pictures and statements posted by former Kosovo President Behgjet Pacolli on his Facebook page, President Ruto signed the recognition letter, making Kenya the first country to recognise Kosovo in five years. "I have gone door to door, office to office, with only one goal - to make the voice and the right of the people of Kosovo for freedom, independence, and sovereignty be heard," Pacolli said, adding that he had been lobbying for this since 2009.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed Kenya has recognised Kosovo, which means the country will begin the process of establishing formal diplomatic relations. "Kenya has recognised Kosovo in the interest of international peace and security, territorial integrity and in furtherance of strengthening relations with countries in the Balkans," the State Department of Foreign Affairs said.
President William Ruto with former President of Kosovo, Behgjet Pacolli, holding the Kosovo recognition papers at State House, March 26, 2025.
