Peter Maddens concluded his five-year diplomatic mission in Kenya, marking a unique family legacy as the son of a former Belgian ambassador to the country. His father served from 1975 to 1978, presenting credentials to President Jomo Kenyatta, while Maddens himself was accredited to President Uhuru Kenyatta in 2021. His farewell meeting with President William Ruto symbolized a generational and political continuum spanning three Belgian ambassadors and Kenyan presidents.
Defining Achievements and Political Landscape
Among his notable contributions, Maddens identified the establishment of Belgium's Net Zero Embassy in Nairobi as a lasting milestone. He also cited the Double Taxation Agreement as a significant diplomatic success. His tenure coincided with Kenya’s politically dynamic period, including the emergence of the Gen Z protests.
On the Gen Z movement, Maddens observed that its leaderless and tribeless nature represented a critical shift away from Kenya's traditional tribal politics. Drawing parallels with Belgium’s complex linguistic and cultural divisions, he emphasized the importance of shared rules for peace. However, he criticized the movement's refusal to engage with leadership, which ultimately weakened its influence.
Lessons on Voter Participation and Ethnic Politics
Maddens highlighted voter apathy during the 2022 elections as a more significant issue than the 2024 protests, noting that a large portion of eligible voters did not register or participate. He urged young Kenyans to register and vote to ensure elected leaders have strong mandates.
Regarding ethnic politics, he acknowledged Kenya is undergoing a transitional phase with promising signs such as the 2018 handshake between Uhuru Kenyatta and Raila Odinga, the Gen Z tribeless identity, and issue-focused campaigns in recent elections. While not claiming Kenya has fully overcome tribalism, he expressed optimism about the country's readiness to move beyond it.
Shifting Africa-Europe Relations and Economic Priorities
Maddens advocated for moving away from aid dependency toward trade, investment, and genuine partnerships, aligning with President Ruto’s vision. He stressed the need to unlock private investment and reduce reliance on development aid, citing the strain on Kenya’s health system after USAid’s suspension as a cautionary example.
He also urged Kenya to focus on local value addition, encouraging processing and manufacturing of exports like avocados and tea domestically to create jobs and sustain the economy amid growing graduate numbers.
Labour Mobility and Strategic Partnerships
Belgium and Kenya are negotiating a labour mobility agreement to address Kenya’s surplus of skilled graduates and Belgium’s shortages in healthcare and social sectors. Maddens noted the importance of employing Kenyan doctors domestically before facilitating their migration but recognized mutual benefits in the arrangement.
Kenya’s strategic location and relative stability make it a key partner for Belgium and the European Union. Maddens praised President Ruto’s balanced diplomacy among global powers including the US, China, Russia, India, and Gulf states, which enhances Kenya’s geopolitical standing.
Climate Cooperation and Diplomatic Approach
Kenya’s leadership in renewable energy, with 95% of electricity from clean sources, offers opportunities for deeper collaboration. Belgium supports Kenya’s climate initiatives and technology partnerships, emphasizing respect for Kenya’s priorities rather than prescribing solutions.
Belgium often refrained from joining joint Western statements on Kenya’s political issues, preferring engagement through the European Union and dialogue based on mutual respect rather than directives.
Looking Ahead
Maddens expressed personal gratitude for the warm reception of his family’s diplomatic legacy and friendships formed during his tenure. His successor, Tom Neijens, brings experience in agronomy and food security, with plans to advance climate, agriculture, and sustainable development initiatives, including continuing the Net Zero Embassy project.
