Determinants of States’ Influence in Regional Organizations: A Case Study of Kenya in the African Union from 2002-2018

The quest for power affects every dimension in international relations. Strong states are capable of influencing and shaping the foreign policy of weak states, influence regional organizations and set the global agenda. Africa has been at the periphery of setting the global agenda mainly due to the fact that most African states formally joined the international system late and this relationship is a result of colonization that was prevalent prior to 1963's foundation of the Organization of African Union, the predecessor of the AU. Africa's sustained economic growth avenges at an estimated six percent per year currently. It is the part of the world where there is increased level of economic growth. Despite this, Africa is expected to remain pretty much where it is at the margins of global power. The Big Five powerhouses of Africa: Algeria, Egypt, Ethiopia, Nigeria and South Africa will inevitably shape the future of the continent. Their economic capabilities, demographics, military capabilities, commitment to peacekeeping and historical regional leaders are key factors. Collectively, these states account for 40% of Africa's population. 60% of the African economy and 53% of Africa's military expenditure. Initially. Kenya's foreign policy was mainly concerned with economic issues and the security of her borders. Though she occasionally issued statements proclaiming her nonaligned status and participated in African Union deliberations. Kenya's Foreign Policy has moved from quiet diplomacy to full identification with one of the major actors in the African Union. It has evolved from a position of partial neutrality in pan-African affairs to one of leadership of the African Union. Kenya's Foreign Policy explains the particular interests, goals, perceptions and fears that have motivated her behavior in world politics.