Susan Burns Officially Replaces Benini as Head of U.S. Embassy Nairobi

Susan Burns Officially Replaces Benini as Head of U.S. Embassy Nairobi

Kenya’s diplomatic stage has witnessed a major change. The United States Embassy in Nairobi has officially confirmed Susan M. Burns as the new Chargé d’Affaires.

With this appointment, Burns becomes the highest-ranking American diplomat in the country. She takes charge of the largest U.S. embassy in Sub-Saharan Africa, a mission central to U.S.-Kenya relations.

Burns Expresses Excitement

On Monday, August 25, Burns released a heartfelt statement. She expressed gratitude and optimism about her new role.

“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,” she said.

Her remarks signaled continuity but also a personal commitment to deepening ties with Kenyans.

Warm Welcome from Benini

Burns succeeds Carla Benini, who briefly held the interim position after Marc Dillard. Benini warmly welcomed her successor in a video featuring the Kenyan and U.S. flags.

“I am excited to welcome our new Chargé d’Affaires, Susan Burns, here to Kenya. Karibu, Susan!” Benini said.

In a lighthearted response, Burns blended diplomacy with Kenyan slang.

“Ahsante, Carla. I am so happy to be here in Kenya. Rada wasee!” she replied.

The short exchange instantly won attention, painting Burns as both approachable and ready to connect with ordinary Kenyans.

A Wealth of Experience

Burns is no stranger to global diplomacy. Between 2022 and 2025, she served as Principal Officer in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. She also led the Office of Mainland Southeast Asia in Washington, shaping U.S. strategy in that region.

Her career spans Uganda, Nepal, Ghana, Poland, and Taiwan. Recognized for her outstanding work, she received the prestigious Edward R. Murrow Award for Excellence in Public Diplomacy in 2017.

Academically, she holds a master’s degree in strategic studies from the U.S. Army War College and a bachelor’s degree from McGill University.

Her Mission in Kenya

As Chargé d’Affaires, Burns will oversee U.S. foreign policy in Kenya. Her work will focus on health, security, trade, governance, and people-to-people ties. Equally, she carries the heavy responsibility of ensuring embassy staff and facilities remain safe.

Her arrival also brings stability after months of leadership changes following Ambassador Meg Whitman’s resignation in November 2024.

For Kenyans, Burns’ message is simple: she is ready to listen, connect, and strengthen bonds that have defined the U.S.-Kenya partnership for decades.

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Susan Burns Officially Replaces Benini as Head of U.S. Embassy Nairobi