Kenya's Foreign Service and Export Trade Promotion

The book has developed an interesting informative investigation of a contemporary issue in the field of international studies. The expansion of the influence and the direct efforts put forth by Foreign Service agencies to increase trade and overall economic activities for their respective countries is underscored. The globalised market place of the 21st century necessitates increased attention to trade and economic activities between countries.The research provides an appropriate mixture of theory and practical information as it pertains to the subject area of export promotion in Kenya.The combination of primary and secondary data adds to the credibility and utility of research.The research results are analysed in a simple narrative fashion through a number of proffessionally developed colourful charts, tables and graphs.Specific Kenyan export activities are discussed along with activities of several other countries. Export Promotion policies vis a vis import substitution policies are discussed. Challenges facing Kenya in the export promotion efforts are examined and discussed with recommendations on how they should be addressed.The book examines the nature of Kenya's Foreign Service in export trade promotion and the structure of Kenya's Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The research indicates that Kenya has not kept pace with changes in international trade activities. However, the establishment of Foreign Service Institute is commended as an excellent idea. Decentralisation of powers from Ministry Headquaters to Missions is suggested as a means to reduce bureaucratic delays and missed opportunites abroad.The book renders fact-based conclusions that are supported by primary and secondary data. Further, they are supported by bibliography that is extensive and germane to the topic area. The book is recommended for Foreign Service Officers, institutions of higher learning dealing with contemporary issues of International Relations, International Economics, Export trade promotion Agencies, business communities and general public.