British envoy Neil Wigan to exit Kenya for senior UK foreign office role
Wigan’s departure comes after a two-year posting that saw notable advances in the Kenya–UK relationship
British High Commissioner to Kenya, Neil Wigan OBE, is set to leave Nairobi at the close of August to take up a senior appointment as Director General Strategy and Delivery at the United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) in London.
The announcement was made by the British High Commission on Monday, August 11.
Wigan’s departure comes after a two-year posting that saw notable advances in the Kenya–UK relationship. Since arriving in 2023, he has overseen diplomatic milestones, expanded trade and investment links, and supported security and development initiatives benefiting both nations.
Reflecting on his time in Kenya, Wigan expressed mixed emotions, describing his service as both rewarding and fast-paced.
“I am deeply saddened to be leaving Kenya after a whirlwind two years,” he said. “Our partnership has flourished in trade, investment, technology, and culture—delivering real benefits to our peoples.”
His tenure included the landmark visit of King Charles III, a historic moment that reaffirmed goodwill and long-standing ties.
He also played a pivotal role in cementing the Kenya–UK Strategic Partnership, an agreement designed to bolster cooperation in security, economic growth, and sustainable development.
Under his leadership, the UK has provided advanced training for Kenyan marines, invested in major infrastructure such as the Nairobi Railway City project, and supported innovation hubs within Kenya’s growing tech ecosystem.
Wigan’s travels took him from the tea fields of Bomet to Wajir County, where he championed women-led enterprises funded by UK programmes.
Beyond formal diplomacy, he spoke warmly of Kenya’s people and culture, recalling experiences such as attending a Maasai elders’ gathering and engaging with local entrepreneurs.
Wigan will now return to London to guide strategic policy at the FCDO, a role that will see him influence the UK’s global development and diplomatic priorities. In his parting words, he offered a heartfelt farewell: “Kenya and the UK are moving forward together. Asanteni sana na kwaherini.”
