The Republic of Kenya officially recognizes the Independence of Kosovo

2025-03-26 14:40:00, Kosova & Bota CNA

The Republic of Kenya has today officially recognized Kosovo as an independent and sovereign state. The news was announced by Behgjet Pacolli.

"17 years after Independence, in an extraordinary and unforgettable ceremony, the Republic of Kenya - one of the most important countries in Africa - officially recognized the Republic of Kosovo as an independent and sovereign state!", writes Pacolli.

Pacolli has called on the Government of Kosovo to immediately establish diplomatic relations with Kenya and open a joint Embassy with the Republic of Albania in Nairobi.

Behgjet Pacolli's statement

NAIROBI March 26, 2025

Today, Kosovo is making history!

17 years after Independence, in an extraordinary and unforgettable ceremony, the Republic of Kenya - one of the most important countries in Africa - officially recognized the Republic of Kosovo as an independent and sovereign state!

This recognition is not just a statement – ??it is a great victory for the state of Kosovo, it is the voice of our freedom heard deep in the heart of Africa! Today, our state flag flies high with pride in Nairobi, and this is proof that Kosovo moves forward, powerfully and with dignity when there is work and will for it!

This victory did not come by chance. It is the fruit of long, tireless work, with dedication and sacrifice. Since 2009, I have personally lobbied and negotiated with the Kenyan authorities to make this day a reality. I have gone door to door, office to office, with only one goal – to make known the voice and right of the people of Kosovo for freedom, independence and sovereignty.

President William Ruto kept his word in 2016.

He visited Kosovo in 2019 and felt the strength and determination of our people. In 2023, during my visit to Nairobi, he took the first step by recognizing our passports. Today, in a grand ceremony, he said it out loud: Kosovo is a state recognized by Kenya!

This is diplomacy with results. This is Kosovo that is respected! This is the victory of our national dignity in the international arena!

I call on the Government of Kosovo to immediately establish diplomatic relations with Kenya and open a joint Embassy with the Republic of Albania in Nairobi. Kosovo must be present where it is respected and supported – in the heart of Africa! This embassy will be Kosovo’s gateway to enter the African continent strongly, to build new political, economic and cultural alliances.

I would like to express my gratitude to my close collaborator, Jetlir Zyberaj, who has been my permanent eyes and ears, not only in this important process for Kosovo.

I would also like to express special thanks to Albania, President Begaj and Prime Minister Edi Rama, who have given me state support.

This is the day when Kosovo was seen, heard and accepted. This is the day when our people should feel the pride of a priceless victory – the international recognition of our state.

Thank you Kenya! Thank you President Ruto! Glory to Kosovo and its proud citizens!/ CNA