Kenyans Abroad Push for Better Investment Conditions Back Home

Kenyans living abroad are optimistic that the government will enhance the investment climate in the nation.

To entice investments from the diaspora community, the government is committed to creating systems that make it easier for Kenyans living abroad to invest in the country. Head of the Kenya Diaspora Alliance Dr Shem Ochuodho has called on the government to focus on the well-being of Kenyans living overseas, enabling them to make significant investments in their home country. During his address at the 10th Annual Kenya Diaspora Homecoming Convention in Nairobi yesterday, Ochuodho stressed the importance of enhancing the investment climate to attract the diaspora community.

According to Roslyn Njogu, the Principal Secretary of the State Department for Diaspora Affairs, the Kenya Kwanza administration is actively working towards improving the investment environment for Kenyans living abroad. Njogu encourages Kenyans overseas to explore the potential business prospects they can contribute to their home country. Additionally, Njogu acknowledges the concerns raised by Kenyans abroad about the high costs associated with sending money back home.

She affirms that she would include all pertinent players in the diaspora money transfer sector to ensure costs are manageable. For now, the foreign and diaspora ministry is working on implementing measures that could help Kenyans living overseas to search for jobs that complement their skill set. Meanwhile, Ochuodho voices his belief that the actions taken by the government to enhance the quality of life for Kenyans living abroad could improve remittances within the nation.

He highlights the potential of diaspora remittances in revamping the economy during times of financial struggle. The Chairperson stresses the need for a conducive investment climate that would entice Kenyans living abroad to invest in their homeland. The United States Ambassador to Kenya, Meg Whitman, has commended the Kenya Diaspora Alliance for organizing the conference and encourages Kenyans overseas to contemplate investing in Kenya.