The German Embassy in Kenya has officially extended its reach to the coastal region, inaugurating a new consular office in Diani, Kwale County. This milestone marks the Embassy’s first consulate on the Kenyan coast, set to provide consular services, foster economic collaborations, and promote cultural exchange.
German Ambassador to Kenya, Sebastian Groth, shared that the Diani office will serve the large number of German citizens living, working, and visiting Kenya’s coastal areas. The new office offers essential consular services like passport renewals, visa processing, and emergency assistance, especially benefiting elderly German nationals who previously had to travel to Nairobi for such needs. Groth highlighted the importance of this facility, noting that “over 80,000 German tourists visit this beautiful part of the country each year.”
Additionally, the consulate will help support local communities through initiatives in education, business, and tourism. Ambassador Groth noted that Germany signed a labour agreement with Kenya last week to expand job opportunities in Germany for Kenyan workers. He also emphasized Germany’s commitment to investing in Kenya, referencing the Romika shoe factory in Kwale County as a prime example of successful collaboration, providing employment for hundreds of locals.
German Honorary Consul Stephan Wentzel celebrated the opening, describing it as a testament to the deep-rooted friendship between Kenya and Germany. He highlighted Germany’s commitment to fostering partnerships that drive mutual growth and understanding.
Representatives from the Kenyan coastal leadership welcomed the Embassy’s presence, noting the positive economic and cultural impact expected. Kilifi Deputy Governor Flora Chibule and Mombasa County’s Farida Abdallah expressed optimism about the consulate’s role in boosting sustainable tourism and creating economic opportunities across the coastal region. Chibule encouraged further German investments, particularly in Kilifi’s business-friendly environment, while Abdallah highlighted the enhanced tourism potential with improved infrastructure, such as the Dongo Kundu Bypass.
The establishment of the Diani office is set to further enhance the partnership between Kenya and Germany, creating new avenues for collaboration and development in the region.
