Kenya’s Government Spokesperson, Isaac Mwaura, has confirmed that the State visit by Dutch King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima will proceed as planned, despite an online campaign urging its cancellation. Over 300 emails were reportedly sent by Kenyans to the Dutch government, citing concerns about the country’s current socio-political climate. However, Mwaura dismissed these efforts, emphasizing the importance of the visit for strengthening Kenya-Netherlands relations.
Strengthening Diplomatic Ties
The Royal House of the Netherlands described the visit, which was organized at the invitation of President William Ruto, as a pivotal moment in the diplomatic relationship between the two nations. The three-day visit aims to foster discussions on key bilateral issues, including trade, investment, and governance.
Government Denounces Online Campaigns
Addressing the press on Monday, Mwaura criticized Kenyans who used social media to spread “misinformation” about the visit, warning that such actions undermine the nation’s image.
“The King of the Netherlands will still visit Kenya, and we have ensured all necessary arrangements are in place. We must not sabotage national interests through baseless claims,” Mwaura stated.
The Dutch Foreign Affairs Ministry also confirmed the visit, noting it would provide an avenue to address concerns raised about Kenya’s governance.
The Threat of Disinformation
Mwaura highlighted the growing threat of disinformation in Kenya, attributing it to the increased consumption of unverified information from social media.
“Kenyans are consuming 50% of their news from social media and another 50% from mainstream media, but the spread of lies is eroding public trust,” he said.
He also linked disinformation to challenges in Kenya’s health sector, referencing ongoing disputes related to the newly implemented Social Health Authority (SHA).
Health Sector Struggles and Clinical Officer Strike
Mwaura addressed concerns raised by clinical officers, who have issued a 14-day strike notice over their exclusion from the SHA and alleged violations of a return-to-work agreement signed last year.
The Kenya Union of Clinical Officers (KUCO) decried the Ministry of Health’s failure to honor previous commitments and accused the government of discriminatory practices under the SHA program.
In response, Mwaura urged clinical officers to exercise patience, noting that the government had fulfilled promises to doctor interns and was working to address broader healthcare issues.
“We are committed to resolving these challenges and ensuring the SHA operates effectively. Strikes only endanger the lives of Kenyans. Let us remain patriotic and avoid sabotaging critical services,” he said.
