British High Commissioner to Kenya, Neil Wigan, has announced he will leave his post at the end of August to take up a senior role in London as Director General of Strategy and Delivery at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO).

Reflecting on his two-year tenure since 2023, Wigan described his time in Kenya as deeply rewarding for both nations.

“I am extremely sorry to be leaving Kenya after a whirlwind two years,” he said. “The Kenya-UK partnership has gone from strength to strength, whether in trade, investment, technology, innovation or cultural links, benefitting both countries and peoples.”

During his service, he highlighted key milestones, including the signing of the new Kenya-UK Strategic Partnership, UK-led training of Kenyan marines, and significant infrastructure projects such as Nairobi Railway City.

Wigan expressed admiration for Kenya’s potential, recalling experiences from meeting Maasai elders to supporting women-led businesses in Wajir.

“From the tea plantations of Bomet County to the Silicon Savannah, I have no doubt that Kenya’s future is bright. I have visited most of Kenya’s counties, I am sorry to not have visited them all,” he said.

He concluded by affirming the strong future ties between the two countries. “Kenya and the UK are going far together, and it has been incredibly rewarding to be part of that journey. Asanteni sana na kwaherini,” he added.

Neil Wigan succeeded Jane Marriott in 2023, who made history as the first female British High Commissioner to Kenya after serving a four-year term ending July 2023.