Tuesday, August 26, 2025 - The United States Embassy in Nairobi has announced Susan M. Burns as the new Chargé d’Affaires, making her the top-ranking American diplomat in Kenya.
In a statement issued on Monday, August 25th, the
Embassy confirmed that Burns takes over from Carla Benini, who had been serving
in an acting capacity following the departure of Marc Dillard.
“I am so happy to be here to continue working to strengthen
our relationship with Kenya.”
“Many thanks to Carla and the entire Embassy team for their
ongoing efforts. Can’t wait to meet you, Kenya,” Burns said in her introductory
message.
Burns previously served as Principal Officer in Ho Chi Minh
City, Vietnam (2022–2025) and has held senior diplomatic assignments including
Director of the Office of Mainland Southeast Asia in Washington, and Public
Affairs Officer in Uganda and Nepal.
She has also served in Poland, Ghana, Taiwan, and the Bureau
of European and Eurasian Affairs.
An accomplished diplomat, Burns holds a master’s degree in
strategic studies from the U.S. Army War College and a Bachelor’s Degree from
McGill University.
She is multilingual, with training in Mandarin, Polish,
Nepali, Vietnamese, and French.
Burns succeeds Marc Dillard, who bid Kenyans farewell in
July with an emotional message reflecting on his tenure.
Appointed by former President Joe Biden in 2024, Dillard
highlighted his work in strengthening cooperation between the U.S and Kenya in
security, health, and cultural exchange.
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