Nairobi Businessman Encourages Kenyans to Capitalize on Canada's Work Permit Policy

Nairobi businessman Anthony Wambugu is urging Kenyans to take advantage of Canada's extended public policy.

The policy grants tourists the chance to obtain work permits tailored to their employers, presenting an exceptional opening for those already within the nation. Nonetheless, Wambugu cautions that as the deadline of February 28, 2025, looms nearer, venturing to Canada may grow more difficult. However, the broadened policy promotes migration and streamlines the procedure of acquiring work permits for visitors. Wambugu suggests that Kenyans should grab hold of this opportunity before any potential changes that could tighten restrictions.

Wambugu emphasizes the economic possibilities for Kenyans living abroad, emphasizing the pressing need for more immigrants due to the country's relatively small population. Throughout the years, Kenyans who were unable to secure employment locally have discovered promising prospects for economic prosperity by relocating to Canada. Wambugu specifically highlights regions such as Yukon, which currently holds a population of merely 40,000 individuals. Canada, with its extensive landmass that surpasses Kenya's by 20 times, has always welcomed immigrants to aid in population growth.

Wambugu's perspective aligns with President William Ruto's suggestion for Kenyans to explore opportunities overseas, as it has the potential to stimulate the economy through diaspora remittances. In light of the backlash regarding his extravagant travel expenses, Ruto came to his own defence by shedding light on the potential advantages of international opportunities. His argument centred around the fact that Kenya has the potential to receive Sh10 billion in diaspora remittances annually. Echoing this sentiment, Ruto's deputy, Rigathi Gachagua, proposed that those currently employed overseas should continue to do so until their home country achieves stability.

The DP acknowledged the existing employment challenges in Kenya and expressed the desire for individuals to send money from abroad. Gachagua assured Kenyans in the diaspora that eventually, they would be able to return home, just not in the immediate future. The Deputy President has reiterated the importance of Kenyan expatriates saving more, motivating their loved ones to explore job prospects in foreign countries, and continuing to invest in Kenya even if they live abroad.