Regional Trade Stratagem Influencing Kenya’s Diplomatic Engagements Within the East African Community Paradigm

Abstract

Many countries around the world use economic diplomacy to exert their influence. Kenya is a major economy in Africa ranking currently among the biggest economies in East Africa Community. While many studies explore Kenya’s economic growth, few interrogate its efficiency as a tool for economic diplomacy in the EA. This study examined how regional trade stratagems influence Kenya’s diplomatic engagements within the EAC paradigm. The objective of this study was to investigate how regional trade stratagems influence Kenya’s diplomatic engagements within the EAC framework the literature was reviewed thematically guided by Interdependence theory and reinforced by Neoliberal theory. This study used a descriptive research design and its target population included Kenya’s Ministry of Trade and Industrialization. The study used purposive, stratified and random sampling methods to sample its respondents. Quantitative data was collected using questionnaires and coded using SPSS and analyzed using descriptive statistics (frequencies and percentages) and presented in tables. Qualitative data was collected by interviewing Key Informants (KIIs), analyzed using content and thematic analysis and presented in narrative and verbatim format. The study found that trade policies (b=0.245, p<0.001), economic partnerships (b=0.278, p<0.001), and strategic approaches (b=0.289, p<0.001) played a significant role in promoting Kenya in the EAC, whereas the persistent challenges (b=0.236, p=0.001) like tariffs and logistical barriers acted as a limit to progress. The study concludes that Kenya has its regional influence based on good policy alignment, economic integration, and strategic partnerships. The research recommends the harmonization of trade frameworks, investing in regional infrastructure and digital diplomacy as methods to enhance Kenya economic diplomacy in the EAC paradigm.