Ambassador Manoah Esipisu, EBS

Ambassador Manoah Esipisu is a distinguished diplomat, government relations expert, and strategic communications leader with a profound track record in shaping international policy and public affairs. Recognized as an authority on Africa-UK relations, he was honored as the 2024 Diplomat of the Year from Africa for his exceptional leadership and contributions to strengthening bilateral ties. In 2022, he was awarded the Elder of the Order of the Burning Spear (EBS) for his exemplary service to journalism, communication, and diplomacy. From 2018 to 2024, Amb. Esipisu served as the High Commissioner of Kenya to the United Kingdom and Permanent Representative to the UN International Maritime Organisation (IMO). During his tenure, he successfully negotiated landmark agreements, including the Kenya-UK Health Alliance and extensive workforce development programs that secured thousands of opportunities for Kenyans in the UK. He also chaired the Executive Committee of the Commonwealth Secretariat, driving critical governance and climate initiatives. Prior to his diplomatic posting, Amb. Esipisu served as the Secretary of Communication and State House Spokesperson for the President of Kenya (2013–2018), where he directed national and international communications, advised the Cabinet, and elevated Kenya's profile on global climate issues. His extensive career also includes impactful roles as a strategic advisor at the Commonwealth Secretariat, the African Development Bank, and as an accomplished financial journalist and news manager for Reuters in Africa. Currently, Amb. Esipisu serves as Director of Busilink Development Services Ltd., a strategy and policy communications advisory firm, and Non-Executive Director of the Equity Group Foundation. He holds advisory roles for Team Gladia, which helps leaders lead, and Momentum Africa Partners, which focuses on impact and delivery. An advocate for global health and education, he is an Honorary Professor of Cancer Sciences at the University of Manchester and a Visiting Professor in Global Affairs at King's College London. He holds a Master of Arts in Financial Journalism from City University of London and maintains a significant public profile with a large following on X and LinkedIn.