Kenyan Diaspora in UK Launches Alliance to Boost Community and Business Ties

The recent establishment of the Kenya Communities and Businesses Alliance (KCBA) marks a significant milestone for Kenyans residing in the United Kingdom.

On September 3, 2024, hundreds of Kenyan expatriates convened virtually to propose the creation of a comprehensive directory aimed at unifying Kenyan communities and businesses across the UK. This initiative, spearheaded by diaspora leaders Ms Alice Maina and Ms Maureen Francis, seeks to facilitate improved government service delivery and foster a robust network among Kenyan communities and enterprises. Moses K. Langat, a co-convenor of the event, emphasized the non-political nature of the alliance. The KCBA is envisioned as a platform where leaders from various Kenyan social, community, and business groups in the UK can engage with one another, their diaspora peers, and crucially, the Kenyan Mission in London.

This collaboration aims to streamline service delivery and enhance communication channels. The gathering was honoured by the presence of the newly appointed Deputy High Commissioner, H.E. Ambassador Joseph Warui. Drawing from his extensive experience of over three decades living in the UK, Ambassador Warui expressed a profound understanding of the challenges faced by Kenyan diaspora members. He reaffirmed the Kenyan government's commitment to ensuring that citizens abroad receive the services they are entitled to, pledging to address key issues such as citizenship complications and obstacles related to business and investment.

Ambassador Warui outlined plans to expand mobile consular services to reach a broader spectrum of Kenyans across the UK, emphasizing that the implementation of these services is a matter of when not if. However, he also highlighted the detrimental effects of disunity and mistrust among diaspora members which have historically hindered collective efforts to address common challenges. The KCBA's establishment comes at a crucial time when the Kenyan diaspora's economic contributions are gaining increased recognition. In 2023, remittances from Kenyans abroad reached a record high of $3.7 billion, playing a vital role in supporting families, funding education, and fostering investments in Kenya. The alliance aims to harness this economic potential by creating a structured platform for business and community engagement.

By providing a comprehensive directory of Kenyan businesses and community groups in the UK, the KCBA hopes to promote collaboration and mutual support among its members. The initiative is expected to simplify access to various services including legal assistance, business registration, and investment opportunities. Additionally, the alliance plans to organize regular networking events, workshops, and seminars to equip its members with essential skills and knowledge for success in the UK. The Kenyan government has demonstrated its support for diaspora initiatives through policies such as the Kenya Diaspora Policy launched in 2022 by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

This policy aims to enhance the engagement and participation of Kenyans abroad in national development, addressing issues such as dual citizenship, voting rights, and investment opportunities. While many participants have expressed optimism about the KCBA's potential, some voices urge caution. Francisco Mbugua, a known critic of the current government, suggests that the promises made by the Deputy Ambassador should be approached with scepticism given past instances of unfulfilled government commitments. Nevertheless, the establishment of the KCBA represents a significant step towards realizing the goals outlined in the Kenya Diaspora Policy and bridging the gap between the diaspora and the Kenyan government.