In a landmark event, the State Department for Diaspora Affairs (SDDA) officially launched its Strategic Plan for 2023-2027 at the Kenya School of Government in Nairobi. The launch underscores the Kenyan government’s commitment to enhancing the welfare and engagement of its diaspora, which numbers between 3 to 4 million globally.
The event was graced by H.E Dr. Wycliffe Musalia Mudavadi, Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, alongside other key government officials. The Principal Secretary for Diaspora Affairs, Roselyne Njogu, highlighted the significant strides the State Department has made since its establishment in October 2022.
“The launch of this Strategic Plan is a testament to our dedication to protecting the rights and promoting the welfare of Kenyans abroad,” Njogu stated. “We aim to champion continuous dialogue, facilitate employment opportunities, and integrate the diaspora into national development.”
The Strategic Plan outlines key initiatives, including:
- Protecting the rights of Kenyans overseas.
- Supporting diaspora engagement in democratic processes.
- Developing an incentive framework for diaspora remittances.
- Collaborating with the Ministry of Labour on migration policies.
Since its inception, the SDDA has achieved notable milestones, including the evacuation and repatriation of over 1,400 Kenyans and the provision of mobile consular services to more than 13,000 citizens in 46 countries. The department has also signed labor migration agreements with Germany and Austria, enhancing opportunities for skilled Kenyan workers abroad.
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi emphasized the diaspora’s crucial role in Kenya’s socio-economic transformation, particularly through remittances and technology transfer. “The diaspora is not just a source of funds; they contribute significantly to various sectors including education, health, and trade,” he noted.
Recent statistics reveal that remittances from Kenyans abroad have surged from USD 4.0 billion in 2022 to USD 4.19 billion in 2023, with projections suggesting they could reach USD 5 billion by the end of 2024.
Mudavadi also addressed emerging issues affecting the diaspora, including the portability of social benefits and the high costs associated with remittances. He urged stakeholders to collaborate in reducing remittance costs to align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
The Strategic Plan aims to enhance diaspora welfare and engagement across five key result areas: welfare and rights, savings and investment, skills transfer, partnerships, and policy frameworks. Njogu called for partnerships with various stakeholders to ensure successful implementation.
With the launch of this Strategic Plan, the Kenyan government reaffirms its commitment to fostering a robust and engaged diaspora, vital for the nation’s growth and developmen