Outgoing United States Ambassador to Kenya, Marc Dillard, has penned a heartfelt message to Kenyans as he officially concludes his tour of duty.
In a statement shared on Friday morning, July 18, 2025, via his official X account, Dillard expressed deep admiration for Kenya, describing it as “a country full of promise and deep heritage.”
“When I first arrived in Kenya, I knew I was stepping into a country full of promise and deep heritage. But what I did not expect was how quickly it would feel like home,” Dillard said.
He reflected on the strong bonds he developed with individuals and institutions across Kenya’s government, civil society, and private sector. According to him, his time in the country went far beyond a typical diplomatic role.
“I have seen firsthand the strength and spirit that define this country, whether in fostering safety and security, supporting health or business initiatives. I have been constantly reminded of the values we share,” he remarked.
Dillard bids Kenya farewell
Dillard also spoke fondly of the personal relationships he formed while serving in Nairobi.
“To serve here has been more than a diplomatic assignment. To all the Kenyan friends that I have made, all the people that I have met, thank you very much,” he added.
Marc Dillard, a seasoned diplomat, was appointed as Chargé d’Affaires by former US President Joe Biden in December 2024, shortly after Ambassador Meg Whitman resigned from the post. Whitman had announced Dillard’s interim appointment and praised his experience.
“It has been an honour to serve as the U.S. Ambassador to Kenya for the past two years. As I depart, please join me in welcoming career diplomat Marc Dillard, who will lead the embassy as Chargé d’Affaires,” Whitman stated.
Whitman officially stepped down on November 13, 2024, calling her tenure in Kenya “an honour and a privilege.”
As Dillard’s chapter in Kenya comes to a close, his farewell message has been met with warm responses from Kenyans online, many thanking him for his service and wishing him well in his future assignments.
Kenneth Mwenda
Kenneth Mwenda is a digital writer with over five years of experience. He graduated in February 2022 with a Bachelor of Commerce in Finance from The Co-operative University of Kenya. He has written news and feature stories for platforms such as Construction Review Online, Sports Brief, Briefly News, and Criptonizando. In 2023, he completed a course in Digital Investigation Techniques with AFP. He joined K24 Digital in May 2025. For inquiries, he can be reached at [email protected].
