Ohio-Based Leader Heads Kenyan Expatriate Delegation in Talks with Diaspora Affairs Department

A delegation of Kenyan expatriates recently concluded a series of high-level discussions in Nairobi aimed at bolstering the diaspora's role in Kenya's economic development.

The delegation coincides with the unveiling of the Kenya Diaspora Policy 2024. Led by Ohio-based Mr David Mutua, the delegation met with the State Department for Diaspora Affairs to address key areas of collaboration, investment opportunities, and policy reforms necessary to facilitate greater diaspora engagement.

The discussions, presided over by Ambassador Isaiya Kabira, the Secretary for Investments, Skills, and Entrepreneurship, centred on structured labour mobility, technology transfer, training programs, and reintegration support for returning diaspora members. A primary focus was the need for regulatory reforms and tailored incentives to foster a more conducive environment for diaspora investments, addressing persistent obstacles that hinder economic contributions.

Machakos County is actively seeking to attract investments from its diaspora community, notably through the establishment of a dedicated Diaspora Desk and the ambitious Machakos Smart City project. This initiative aims to establish the region as a recreational, residential, and commercial hub, signalling a proactive approach to sustainable development.

The meeting also explored collaborative opportunities in organizing job fairs for counties within the South Eastern Kenya Economic Bloc (SEKEB), along with initiatives aimed at enhancing financial literacy. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to leverage the diaspora's expertise and knowledge, enriching Kenya's human capital. The delegation included key figures such as Dr. Muema Wambua of Machakos County and Ms. Faith Muthoki, Acting CEO of SEKEB.