Kenyans in Diaspora Celebrate Christmas Through Video Calls and Online Platforms

Kenyans living abroad marked Christmas by maintaining religious and cultural traditions despite financial pressure and reduced remittances to families at home.

Across several countries, diaspora communities gathered in churches, private homes, and hired venues to observe the holiday in familiar ways. Religious services remained central to the celebrations, offering both worship and an opportunity for social connection among Kenyans and other African communities living overseas. 

Services were often followed by shared meals that helped recreate aspects of Christmas typically spent with extended family in Kenya. In the United States, celebrations took place against a backdrop of rising living costs and tighter household budgets. 

Many families reduced holiday spending, while the amount of money sent back to Kenya declined during a key period for household support. Data from the Central Bank of Kenya show that remittance inflows in November 2025 fell by 8.3 percent compared with the same month the previous year.

Economists attribute the decline to stricter immigration enforcement in the US and new taxes applied to international money transfers. The reduction has affected households in Kenya that rely on financial support from relatives abroad, particularly during the end-of-year period.

Digital technology played a central role in sustaining family connections. Video calls, messaging platforms, and money transfer services such as PayAngel enabled families to exchange greetings, prayers, and financial support across long distances. Although remittance volumes were lower, digital transfers continued to provide essential assistance to relatives in Kenya.

Cultural differences also shaped the diaspora experience. In many parts of the US, Christmas occurred during winter conditions, including freezing temperatures and snow. This contrasted sharply with Kenya’s warm December climate.