The United Kingdom has appointed career diplomat Matt Baugh as its new high commissioner to Kenya, succeeding Neil Wigan who left eight months ago. Baugh will take up the post this April, pending approval by President William Ruto. Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing'Oei has welcomed him to Nairobi.
The UK government has named John William Matthew Baugh, known as Matt Baugh OBE, as its high commissioner to Kenya. The position had been vacant for eight months since Neil Wigan OBE departed in August last year. In the interim, Ed Barnett has served as Chargé d’Affaires at the British Embassy while also acting as Permanent Representative to UNEP and UN-Habitat.
"Mr Matt Baugh OBE has been appointed British High Commissioner to the Republic of Kenya in succession to Mr Neil Wigan OBE, who has taken up another Diplomatic Service appointment. Mr Baugh will take up his appointment during April 2026," the UK government announced.
Currently undergoing pre-posting training that includes Kiswahili, Baugh brings extensive diplomatic experience. He served as ambassador to Somalia from 2010 to 2013 and held senior roles at the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), such as Director for Migration and Conflict from 2024 to 2025.
The appointment follows recent changes by Kenya, where President William Ruto named Maurice Makoloo as high commissioner to the UK. Makoloo presented his credentials to King Charles III on February 19, 2026.
