Public Opinion, Print Media, and Foreign Policy Decision-Making in Kenya Between 2017 and 2022

Abstract

This article critically examines the influence of public opinion and print media on foreign policy decision-making in Kenya. Public opinion has become a significant factor, often competing with traditional governmental mechanisms in shaping foreign policy decisions. The article explores the symbiotic relationship between public opinion, print media, and foreign policy processes, focusing on Kenya’s post-Cold War era and its multiparty political system. Drawing from key examples, the paper delves into how non-governmental organizations (NGOs), interest groups, and the general public interact with media outlets like The Daily Nation and The Standard, influencing public perception and foreign policy decisions. The research adopts a mixed-methods approach, integrating both qualitative and quantitative data, with a theoretical foundation grounded in media agenda-setting theory and social identity theory. Empirical data from interviews, surveys, and media content analysis highlight the dynamic role of print media in framing public opinion, while case studies of major foreign policy decisions, such as the Somali conflict and relations with international donors, demonstrate the impact of public sentiment. Ultimately, the article recommends enhancing the alignment between media, public opinion, and governmental policies to achieve more inclusive and informed foreign policy decision-making in Kenya.