A distinguished scholar, holds a Doctor of Philosophy in International Relations from the University of Bradford, UK. His research focused on East-West Relations and the Politics of Strategic Resources-Conflict in Central and Southern Africa. With a Master of Arts in International Relations-Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution Strategies, and a Bachelor of Arts in Economics & Sociology from the University of Nairobi, and possesses a strong academic background. As a leading figure in international affairs, his remarkable achievements include being appointed Kenya's Ambassador to UN-HABITAT in 2001. Additionally, he has significantly contributed to policy research as the Founder Director of the Research Institute for Peace, Policy and International Affairs (RIPPIA), and as a Visiting Lecturer at various universities.

Currently, he serves as a Council member on the South Eastern Kenya University contributing to governance in higher education and international relations research. Amb. (Prof) Kikaya's extensive academic qualifications and notable contributions mark him as a key influencer in the fields of international relations, peace studies, and policy.