PS Njogu Confronts Notion of Diaspora Policy Being Remittance-Driven

The State Department for Diaspora Affairs (SDDA) has unveiled an ambitious nine-point agenda aimed at empowering and engaging the Kenyan diaspora community beyond just remittances.

This comprehensive initiative comes in response to a pressing question raised by a German-based Kenyan, who challenged PS Roseline Njogu on the government's vision for the diaspora besides being attracted by their remittances. At the core of the SDDA's mission is championing the rights and welfare of Kenyans living abroad. The authority seeks to promote continuous dialogue with the diaspora and mainstream their voices into the national development process. Recognizing the significant economic contributions of the diaspora, the SDDA aims to develop an incentive framework to encourage and facilitate remittances to Kenya.

Additionally, the department is focused on facilitating diaspora investments, including leveraging their savings for foreign direct investment and technology transfer back to Kenya. The SDDA is also concerned with supporting the diaspora in harnessing more opportunities for employment and enterprise development. A key initiative in this regard is the implementation of the Global Labor Market Strategy and Labor Migration Policy to secure placements for Kenyans seeking employment opportunities abroad. Moreover, the participation of the Kenyan diaspora in democratic processes at home is also a key priority for the department.

Recognizing the diverse needs of the diaspora community, the SDDA offers a range of services to ensure that Kenyans living abroad have access to essential resources and support systems. These include Mobile Consular Services (MCS) which bring consular assistance directly to diaspora members irrespective of their location. The authority also promises to provide counselling services for individuals seeking emotional support and guidance. Furthermore, the SDDA fosters a sense of unity and collaboration among Kenyans living abroad by encouraging active diaspora associations to register with the department.

Using innovative technology, the SDDA engages in Crisis Mapping to promptly identify and respond to social crisis hotspots, thereby ensuring safety and security for the diaspora. The department also promises to offer assistance and support during times of loss through its Reporting Death services. Ensuring fairness and justice, the department provides legal assistance and advice to diaspora individuals facing legal challenges through its In Conflict With the Law services.

In emergencies, the SDDA assists distressed diaspora members with Evacuation and Repatriation efforts by sharing emergency information and facilitating necessary procedures. The department also aids in reuniting families by offering Tracing for Lost Persons services. As emphasised by PS Njogu, the SDDA serves as a crucial resource for Kenyans living abroad, fostering connections, providing support, and empowering individuals to thrive regardless of their geographic location.