Kenyan Diaspora in Toronto Urges Canada to Halt Deportation of Reverend Wanyeki

Toronto's Kenyan diaspora is in uproar as Reverend Rosalind Wanyeki, a central figure within their community, faces imminent deportation scheduled for 7 August. 

Wanyeki arrived in Canada five years ago with her two children, seeking refuge from persecution in Kenya. Since then, she has established a church, operated a business, and provided essential pastoral care to over a thousand Kenyan immigrants. Her supporters claim her deportation would dismantle a critical support network.

Reverend John Munywoki highlights the vital role Wanyeki plays, saying, "Within our Kenyan community, we rely heavily on clergy like Reverend Rosalind for counselling and mental support. Her removal would tear apart a lifeline many depend on."

Wanyeki, expressing her distress, told City News, "I was already established; I had the church, and I had my own business. I have my two kids. I would not have come all this way if I had other options. Asking me to go back is as good as telling me to die."

The Migrant Workers Alliance for Change has joined the calls for a halt to the deportation, urging the federal government to honour its 2021 pledge to regularise undocumented migrants. Advocates argue that the current immigration system fails individuals like Wanyeki, whose contributions to Canadian society are substantial and meaningful.

Although Wanyeki's legal appeal for permanent residency and risk assessment remains pending, community leaders fear deportation proceedings may proceed before a final ruling. They are advocating for a temporary stay to allow due process to unfold.

The situation also resonates with broader anxieties across North America, as Kenyans in the United States face similar threats under fast-tracked deportation measures.