Kenyan Diaspora Sustains Efforts for National Development

Kenyan Diaspora Sustains Efforts for National Development

The 10th Annual Convention of the Kenya Diaspora Alliance has sparked meaningful discussions on global engagement, ushering in a new era of collaboration, innovation, and sustainable investments.

Ensuing from December 6th to 8th, the event held the theme, "Innovation, Fintech, and Investments Towards One Trillion," which echoed the economic aspirations shared by Kenya and the vast African diaspora. Dr. Shem Ochuodho, the KDA Global Chair, highlighted the convention's significance as a pivotal platform for engagement, dialogue, and partnership-building. The event saw the convergence of government officials, ambassadors, and local and diaspora communities, all united in their dedication to the development journey of Kenya.

One notable figure in attendance was the American Ambassador to Kenya, Meg Whitman, who delivered a captivating speech titled "Why Africa, Why Kenya." Ambassador Whitman emphasized the immense opportunities arising from Africa's economic growth and the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA). Her excitement for increased collaboration between the United States and Kenya resonated throughout her address. “AGOA is a bridge to opportunities for Kenya and the diaspora, creating jobs and fostering economic growth. Let us seize these prospects together.” she urged.

Throughout the convention, participants engaged in extensive discussions, resulting in noteworthy observations and recommendations. A significant milestone emerged with the introduction of the Sharia law-compliant Muslim bond, Sukuk, fostering inclusivity and driving market capital growth. The importance of unity among African diaspora communities globally took centre stage, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts in the continent's development.

Recognizing the youth as the largest working population, the convention called for their active involvement in personal and national development. Key tools for boosting Kenya's economy, such as the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) and the "Prosper Africa" program, were underscored. The convention emphasized diaspora involvement in trade and investment, recognizing the potential for mutual economic growth. The KDA "Deal Room" was celebrated for successfully connecting diaspora businesses with Kenyan entrepreneurs, leading to initiatives gaining momentum in areas like solid waste management, cold storage solutions, and real estate development.

Dr Ochuodho expressed pride in the Kenya Diaspora Alliance's role in fostering dialogue, innovation, and collaboration that empowers both Kenya and its diaspora communities. The convention provided a platform to unite and explore the vast potential that Kenya and AGOA offer. The 10th Annual Kenya Diaspora Homecoming Convention symbolizes a promising future where diaspora members take the lead in Kenya's development agenda.

The event concluded with a resounding call to action for the diaspora to actively participate in building a stronger, more prosperous Kenya. Meanwhile, the Kenya Diaspora Alliance eagerly anticipates ongoing collaboration, investment, and innovation, shaping a brighter future for the nation and its global citizens.

Comments

PPPian (not verified)     Tue, 12/26/2023 @ 07:58am

Most KENYAns send Money home Because they Have no Otherwise. But a Few stubborn WISE have Refused to Send their Money home;and Are INVESTING in their RETIREMENT Benefits Abroad. Hawataki uSHENZI wa maRelative suckers na Serekali corrupt.

AbolishTheOffi… (not verified)     Tue, 12/26/2023 @ 09:47am

When are these diaspora leaders going to address:
1. Human trafficking & slave trade that is being promoted by the Government of Kenya
2. Sex trafficking
3. Drug trafficking & human trafficking also known as JKIA Blackouts
4. Money laundering

Stop lying that 1/2 a million people in the diaspora are sending $4.02 billion .

Thats minimum $1 million per person.

Mūndūmūgo (not verified)     Thu, 12/28/2023 @ 09:43pm

In reply to by AbolishTheOffi… (not verified)

Technically, it's possible. If the US sends 57%, that would equal a little over $14000 per person per year. If you don't break that number any further, that would mean an average of around $4900 for the rest of the diaspora. However since the Europe and Canada send about 35% of what the US sends, that leaves around 1.3 billion to the rest of the world @ around $3700 per person for all the other countries. My caveat is that I think a massive chunk both in the US and UK are by Somalis both of Kenyan and Somali origin but primarily of the latter. I send some but more like 5k mostly to take care of a parent and pay water bills and land rates. I know some who are active investors and they send large chunks.

AbolishTheOffi… (not verified)     Sat, 12/30/2023 @ 03:46am

In reply to by Mūndūmūgo (not verified)

So , technically you are sending a minimum of $1 million US DOLLARS per year to kenya?

Stop lying.

Which Somalis are sending $1 million dollars to kenya per year?

Stop these lies.

Sue (not verified)     Tue, 12/26/2023 @ 06:29pm

This sounds like a very interesting thing. However, I think it's only marketed to a small number of people. Actually, I live in the Diaspora and the only way I found about this was happening this month was through a friend who lives in Kenya. There is extremely poor awareness that something like this is happening. I was surprised to hear it has been going on for the last 10 years.

Mlandizi (not verified)     Wed, 12/27/2023 @ 05:02pm

Anything, and I mean anything where politicians and pastors are at the helm, I void such things like cardinal sins.

Mbwana (not verified)     Wed, 12/27/2023 @ 09:56pm

Good progress though to be hands-on issues, Kenya Diaspora Alliance (KDA) should come with potential Kenya investors who are ready to expand their respective market to Diasporas. Those companies that are fully vetted by
their respective Restriction Authority and are backed by the govt. This will certainly reassured Diasporas to flock in with huge shares just for the sake of documented surety by the Govt.

Mbwana (not verified)     Thu, 12/28/2023 @ 09:21pm

Its now enough of the empty words, we need a concrete plan to follow from the KDA such as enrollment of potential Diaspora investors to be registered in their favorable industry to buy shares, purchase land, Join a Sacco and other form of business activities.

I hope one day either KDA or the Govt will wake up and think of ACTION and less useless convention.

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