BREAKING: Kenya Recognises Kosovo As Independent State, Breaking Five-Year Stalemate

Kenya has officially recognised Kosovo as an independent state, marking the first such recognition in nearly five years. This development signals a breakthrough for Kosovo’s ongoing efforts to gain broader international acceptance since declaring independence from Serbia in 2008.

Despite its unilateral declaration of independence, Kosovo has faced significant obstacles in securing full global recognition. The country remains excluded from the United Nations due to opposition from Serbia and its key allies, including Russia and China, both of which hold veto power in the U.N. Security Council. However, more than 110 countries, including the United States and most European nations, have recognised Kosovo’s sovereignty.

The announcement of Kenya’s recognition came from former Kosovo President Behgjet Pacolli, who shared photos on his Facebook page of Kenyan President William Ruto signing the recognition letter. Pacolli, a long-time advocate for Kosovo’s independence on the international stage, expressed his dedication to the cause.

“I have gone door to door, office to office, with only one goal—to make the voice and the right of the people of Kosovo for freedom, independence, and sovereignty heard,” Pacolli stated, highlighting his lobbying efforts since 2009.

Kenya’s decision marks the first new recognition of Kosovo’s independence since Israel acknowledged its statehood in September 2020. The move is expected to further Kosovo’s diplomatic aspirations, potentially paving the way for additional recognition in the future.