By Brian Kiprono - Reporter
Kenya, 7 April 2026 - The United Kingdom has moved to fill a key diplomatic gap in Nairobi, appointing seasoned diplomat Matt Baugh as its new High Commissioner to Kenya, nearly eight months after the departure of his predecessor.
In a statement, the UK government confirmed that Baugh will take up the role in April 2026, succeeding Neil Wigan, who left the post last August.
“Mr Matt Baugh OBE has been appointed British High Commissioner to the Republic of Kenya… and will take up his appointment during April 2026,” the statement read.
His arrival will end a period during which the UK mission in Nairobi has been led in an acting capacity by Chargé d’Affaires Ed Barnett.
Baugh brings extensive diplomatic experience, including previous service in Africa. He served as the UK’s Ambassador to Somalia and has held senior roles within the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, focusing on security, migration and conflict.
His career has also seen postings in Brussels and involvement in high-level policy work on European security and post-conflict reconstruction.
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Kenya has already signalled its readiness to work with the incoming envoy, with Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’Oei welcoming his appointment ahead of his official accreditation.
Baugh is expected to formally assume office once he presents his credentials to President William Ruto.
His appointment comes at a time when both Kenya and the UK are recalibrating diplomatic ties, following Kenya’s own recent posting of Ambassador Maurice Makoloo to London earlier this year.
UK Names Matt Baugh as New Envoy to Kenya After Months Without High Commissioner
Matt Baugh named as UK's next High Commissioner to Kenya
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