Foreign Heads of Mission from the Republic of Panama, Republic of Kenya, and Republic of Botswana present their credentials to President Halimah Yacob in a formal ceremony at the Istana
In a dignified ceremony at the Istana on August 29, 2023, President Halimah Yacob received the credentials of distinguished foreign diplomats who will serve as Heads of Mission in Singapore. The ceremony, symbolizing the formal commencement of their diplomatic service in the country, showcased the diversity of diplomatic ties Singapore maintains across the globe.
The Heads of Mission who presented their credentials are as follows:
The Ambassador of the Republic of Panama
His Excellency Enrique Villegas González R.
n a significant moment for diplomatic relations between the Republic of Panama and Singapore, His Excellency Enrique Villegas González R. presented his credentials as the Ambassador. Before his diplomatic assignment, Ambassador Villegas González held a crucial role as the Vice-President of Engineering and Projects at the Tocumen International Airport in Panama City. A graduate from the Universidad Santa María La Antigua, he holds a Bachelor of Science in Structural Architecture. His diverse experience includes managing construction companies and even running his own design and construction business. Ambassador Villegas González has also been actively engaged in social service, notably as the President of the Panama Club from 2014 to 2015, overseeing impactful fundraising activities.
The High Commissioner of the Republic of Kenya
His Excellency Galma Mukhe Boru
High Commissioner Galma Mukhe Boru, representing the Republic of Kenya, brings a wealth of experience in public service and diplomacy. His career spans various roles, from being an economist and statistician at the Ministry of Planning and National Development to serving as the Ambassador of Kenya to Qatar. Recognized for his exemplary service, he was awarded the Moran of the Order of the Burning Spear (MBS) and Elder of the Order of the Burning Spear (EBS) by Presidents Mwai Kibaki and Uhuru Kenyatta. With a Masters in International Relations from SOAS, University of London, and a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from the University of Nairobi, High Commissioner Boru is well-equipped to foster strong ties between Kenya and Singapore.
The High Commissioner of the Republic of Botswana
His Excellency Dr. Batlang Comma Serema
Representing the Republic of Botswana, High Commissioner Dr. Batlang Comma Serema is a distinguished diplomat with a background in public policy and information studies. Born in Tonota, Botswana, Dr. Serema served as the High Commissioner to Namibia before his current appointment to Singapore. His extensive contributions include roles as Vice President of the Botswana Football Association, Chairman of the Botswana National Youth Council Agricultural Enterprise, and Executive Secretary of the Botswana Democratic Party. As the Founder and Non-Executive Director of the Information Academy, Dr. Serema adds an academic dimension to his diplomatic profile. His publication, “Renewed Hope: Botswana under Masisi” (2019), reflects his insightful perspectives on Botswana’s political landscape.
Source – MFA
