US Chargé d’Affaires Marc Dillard has sent a heartfelt farewell message to Kenyans as his diplomatic tenure draws to a close.
In a video shared on Friday, July 18, Dillard reflected on his arrival in Nairobi, his emotional connection to Kenya, revealing how quickly the nation came to feel like home.
"When I first arrived in Kenya, I knew I was stepping into a nation full of promise and deep heritage. But what I didn't expect was how quickly it would feel like home.
"I've had the honor of working with incredible partners in government, civil society, the private sector, and most importantly, the Kenyan people," he said.
Dillard also highlighted the role he played in strengthening US-Kenya relations in areas of security cooperation, health and cultural exchange.
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"From the capital to the coast, west to the north, I have seen firsthand the strength and spirit that define this country.
"Whether we were fostering safety and security, supporting health or business initiatives, or standing together in moments of celebration and challenge, I've been constantly reminded of the values we share," he added.
Dillard said his time in Kenya was more than a professional posting, describing it as a deeply personal experience of learning and connection.
"To serve here has been more than a diplomatic assignment. It's been a journey of friendship, of learning, and of connection. To all of the Kenyan friends that I've made, all the people that I've met, thank you very much," he further said.
Dillard was appointed to the post by former US President Joe Biden in December 2024 after the resignation of Meg Whitman.
Before his role as Chargé d'Affaires, he had a distinguished career in the US Foreign Service since 1998.
Dillard served as Deputy Chief of Mission in Budapest from 2019 to 2022 and held various positions, including Director of Economic Policy Analysis and Public Diplomacy, and Political and Economic Counselor in Sofia, Bulgaria.
He also worked in multiple countries, such as Malawi, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Japan, and Korea, and was a consultant and adjunct faculty member prior to joining the State Department.
