Kenya's Influence Grows in Spain-Africa Relations

Kenya has officially welcomed the appointment of two of its distinguished nationals, Professor Beatrice Obado and Dr. Kevit Desai, to the Spain–Africa Advisory Committee. The announcement was made following a meeting between Spain's Ambassador to Kenya, Jaime Moreno, and Kenyan officials on October 6, 2025, in Nairobi.

The 54-member committee is central to the execution of the Spain–Africa Strategy 2024–2028, a comprehensive plan aimed at strengthening Spain's ties with the African continent.

Context: Spain–Africa Strategy 2024–2028

The Spain–Africa Strategy 2024–2028, unveiled by Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez in December 2024, is an ambitious roadmap designed to boost economic, diplomatic, and cultural relations between Spain and African nations. The strategy is structured around five key objectives and encompasses 100 lines of action. These objectives include deepening mutual understanding and dialogue, fostering sustainable development with an emphasis on youth, strengthening links between African and Spanish societies and economies, enhancing security capabilities, and promoting inclusive societies and human rights.

The strategy also seeks to create legal pathways for migration, increase educational scholarships for African youth, and boost cooperation in areas such as security, health, education, and environmental challenges.

Stakeholders and Their Roles

Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi publicly acknowledged the appointments on X, stating, “Kenya proudly welcomes the appointment of two of our distinguished nationals, Prof. Beatrice Obado and Dr. Kevit Desai, to the 54-Member Spain–Africa Advisory Committee, established to guide the implementation of the Spain–Africa Strategy 2024–2028.”

Professor Beatrice Obado is an Adjunct Professor of International Relations and Sustainable Development at IE University and Schiller International University. Her research focuses on African studies, particularly sustainable management of human and natural resources, regional geopolitics, and conflict resolution. She also serves on the board of Africa 2.0 International foundation, the Choiseul Institute in Spain, and the advisory board of Casa Africa.

Dr. Kevit Desai currently serves as the Principal Secretary in the State Department of East African Community (EAC) within Kenya's Ministry of East African Community and Regional Development. He previously held the position of Principal Secretary in the State Department of Vocational and Technical Education (TVET) in the Ministry of Education. Dr. Desai holds a PhD in Robotics Systems Engineering and has a background in industrial automation and control systems.

Evidence/Data

• The Spain–Africa Advisory Committee comprises 54 members.
• The committee was launched on July 17, 2025, by Spain's Minister for Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation, José Manuel Albares.
• The committee includes 34 African personalities and 20 Spanish members, drawn from academia, business, institutions, and civil society.
• The Spain–Africa Strategy 2024–2028 outlines five strategic goals and 100 lines of action.
• The strategy prioritizes West Africa, North Africa, and the Sahel regions.

Risks/Implications

Analysts suggest that these appointments could significantly influence public debate and policy execution in the near term. Stakeholders are keen for more clarity regarding the timelines, costs, and safeguards associated with the implementation of the Spain–Africa Strategy. The involvement of Kenyan experts at this level could lead to increased collaboration opportunities and potentially shape the strategy's focus to better align with East African priorities.

What to Watch

The next steps will involve monitoring the active participation of Professor Obado and Dr. Desai within the Advisory Committee and observing how their expertise contributes to the strategy's implementation. Attention will also be on specific initiatives and projects that may emerge from the committee's recommendations, particularly those with direct implications for Kenya and the wider East African region.