Moroccan diplomacy moves forward with gathering African consensus on the Sahara

Kenya has formally endorsed Morocco’s autonomy initiative as the sole realistic and lasting solution to the Sahara dispute, signaling a significant shift in Nairobi’s foreign policy and a departure from its long-standing support for the Polisario Front.

The announcement came Monday during the inauguration of Kenya’s new embassy in Rabat, aligning Nairobi with a growing international consensus in support of Morocco’s sovereignty over its southern provinces.

The move marks a major reorientation for one of East Africa’s most influential political and economic powers, which had historically backed the secessionist claims of the Polisario.

Analysts say the decision reflects the increasing effectiveness of Moroccan diplomacy and Nairobi’s evolving strategic priorities.

“This is part of a broader trend where several African countries are reassessing their alliances and recognizing the benefits of closer ties with Morocco,” said Abdelali Benlias, professor of political science at Mohammed V University in Rabat.

Benlias told Hespress that Kenya’s realignment stems from “an understanding that its economic, political, and strategic interests are better served through renewed relations with Morocco.”

The policy shift coincides with Morocco’s growing influence in African affairs, bolstered by initiatives such as the Atlantic Strategy and the Nigeria-Morocco gas pipeline.

Benlias added that Kenya’s decision to establish a permanent diplomatic mission in Rabat signals the beginning of a deeper bilateral relationship. “This will likely include enhanced economic, cultural, and political collaboration, as well as increased coordination within the African Union,” he said.

Mohamed Chakir, a political and security analyst, noted that South Africa historically played a major role in shaping Kenya’s pro-Polisario stance. “Kenya, like many Anglophone African countries, was influenced by South Africa’s alignment with Algeria and its opposition to Moroccan territorial integrity,” Chakir said.

Morocco’s limited diplomatic footprint in East Africa previously contributed to that dynamic. But the landscape began to change after Morocco rejoined the African Union in 2017 and launched a focused diplomatic campaign, including high-level state visits and strategic economic partnerships.

Chakir also pointed to the reaffirmation of U.S. support for Morocco’s autonomy plan under the Trump administration as a key factor in shifting African perceptions.

“As a major player within the African Union, Kenya’s shift is expected to tip the balance further in Morocco’s favor and marginalize the separatist bloc, which is increasingly limited to Algeria and South Africa,” he said.