Matt Baugh appointed British High Commissioner to Kenya

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office on Monday confirmed Baugh’s appointment, which took effect in April 2026. 

Before his posting to Kenya, Baugh served as the Director for Migration & Conflict at the UK’s ministerial department. He was earlier the Director for Euro-Atlantic Security at the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office.

Before these roles, the diplomat worked in Brussels as the Ambassador to the EU Political & Security Committee and later Director, Political & Security, UKMis EU, among other diplomatic roles. 

Baugh is a prominent British diplomat who previously worked as the UK's ambassador to Somalia and has held top roles centered on Africa policy. 

His new role was previously held by Neil Wigan, whose 2-year tenure came to an end in August 2025. 

Wigan took up a new position as Director General Strategy and Delivery at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) in London.

While announcing his departure, Wigan celebrated the strengthened ties between Kenya and the United Kingdom, significantly benefiting both nations and their citizens.