Norway established diplomatic relations with Kenya shortly after the country became independent in 1963. From the latter part of 1960 up to 1990, Norwegian development assistance played a central role in the relations between the two countries. In 1990, Kenya temporarily suspended its diplomatic relations with Norway, mainly due to Norway's criticism on human rights abuses. In 1994 the diplomatic relations were restored. Norway was then represented first by a Chargé d' affaires, and since 1997 with an Ambassador in the Kenyan capital. After the change of the Kenyan Government in January 2003 the embassy has expanded its staff.