Marc Dillard has assumed the role of US ambassador to Kenya in an acting capacity following the resignation of Meg Whitman earlier this month.
Dillard, who had been serving as deputy ambassador, announced that he is the Chargé d’Affaires in a video posted on social media on November 27, 2024.
Chargé d’Affaires is a diplomat who serves as an embassy’s chief of mission in the absence of the ambassador.
Introducing himself in a blend of English and Swahili, Dillard’s casual yet confident demeanour captured attention.
“Vipi wazito, mimi ni Marc Dillard, naibu balozi wa Marekani at the US embassy in Kenya. With the departure of our ambassador, I am honoured to step in as Chargé d’Affaires to continue advancing the strong partnership between the United States and Kenya,” he said in the video.
Dillard emphasized his commitment to further strengthening the bonds between the United States and Kenya, highlighting key areas such as security, economic growth, and health.
Drawing on his two years of experience living and working in Kenya, he expressed admiration for the achievements of local partners and enthusiasm for engaging more deeply with the country’s communities.
“It really is a privilege to support this mission and our incredible team as we work side by side with Kenyans in areas like security, economic growth, and health.
“Over the past two years, living and working in Kenya, I have had the opportunity to see the impressive work done by our many friends and partners. I look forward to travelling to more communities across this rich, beautiful country,” he added.
Meg Whitman’s departure
Dillard steps into the role after the resignation of Meg Whitman, who left her position as US ambassador to Kenya on November 13, 2024.
Whitman, who had served since 2022, announced her decision to step down in a statement shared with the public and her embassy team.
“Today, I announced to my team at the U.S. embassy that I submitted my resignation to President Biden. It has been an honour and privilege to serve the American people through strengthening our partnership with Kenya,” Whitman said.
Reflecting on her tenure, Whitman highlighted key accomplishments, including spearheading initiatives that improved public health, enhanced security, and fostered economic opportunities for both Kenyans and Americans.
“I am proud of leading a people-centered agenda that saves lives, increases security, and creates economic opportunities for Kenyans and Americans. From delivering emergency funding to alleviate catastrophic flooding in 2023 to the ongoing fight against malaria, HIV, and MPOX, the U.S. government prioritizes the health and welfare of our friends in Kenya,” she remarked.
Her resignation coincided with the aftermath of the US presidential election, in which Donald Trump secured a victory.
While Whitman did not directly link her departure to the election results, her decision comes as the US prepares for a leadership transition slated for January 20, 2025.
Trump is expected to name a new ambassador once he is sworn in as president in January.
Dillard’s appointment to fill the vacancy left by Whitman ensures continuity in US-Kenya relations during this transitional period.
