Kenya is setting an ambitious target to increase diaspora remittances to KSh 1 trillion by 2027, according to Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi. This follows a record-breaking year in 2023, when Kenyans working abroad sent home KSh 671 billion, outstripping traditional foreign exchange earners like tea and coffee.
Speaking at the Western Edition of the Kazi Majuu Job Fair in Vihiga County, Mudavadi emphasized the critical role that Kenyans abroad play in the country’s economy. He revealed that the government is actively working to increase the number of Kenyans securing jobs overseas through bilateral agreements and other interventions, which would further boost remittance inflows.
“We aim to push remittances to a trillion shillings in the next three years. The increasing number of Kenyans abroad, facilitated by government efforts, is key to achieving this goal,” Mudavadi stated.
He highlighted that youth employment abroad is not only vital for individual families but also for strengthening the country’s foreign revenue. He warned that without continued growth in diaspora remittances, the Kenyan shilling could face increased pressure.
Mudavadi, who also serves as the Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, noted that Kenyan workers are in high demand globally due to their strong work ethic and fluency in English. He pointed to examples like Delta Airlines, which employs Kenyans remotely from Nairobi’s Tatu City, paying them in dollars.
“Some Kenyans working on cruise ships are earning between KSh 250,000 and KSh 400,000. This is a significant income that benefits both the workers and the country,” he said.
However, Mudavadi stressed the importance of discipline among Kenyan youth seeking employment abroad. He reminded them that once they leave Kenya, they must respect the laws of their host countries to avoid damaging their reputation and jeopardizing future opportunities for other Kenyans.
He also noted Kenya’s openness as a society, which has attracted global media giants like BBC and Al Jazeera to establish their Africa headquarters in Nairobi. However, he cautioned that violence and extremism could tarnish the image of Kenyan youth and deter international employers.
“Respect the law of the country you are in. Maintain discipline, avoid reckless behavior, and honor your financial obligations, like paying rent on time,” Mudavadi advised.
In addition to efforts to boost diaspora remittances, Mudavadi highlighted the government’s focus on creating job opportunities within Kenya. He mentioned that Israel is keen on investing in Kenya’s agricultural sector, particularly in response to global food security concerns exacerbated by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This partnership, supported by both governments, is seen as a solution to declining food production.
“Investors are drawn to peace and stability. If I were an investor, I would not risk my money in a chaotic environment,” Mudavadi remarked, emphasizing the need for a conducive environment for investment and economic growth in Kenya.
Mudavadi also addressed the importance of discipline among Kenyan workers abroad, warning that indiscipline could tarnish the country’s reputation. He cited instances where Kenyans got into trouble due to indiscipline, leading to unnecessary diplomatic interventions.
He expressed concern about the ongoing conflict in Lebanon, where 26,000 Kenyans are employed. He stressed that the government’s priority is the safety and welfare of its citizens abroad.
“Our prayer is for normalcy to return to the Middle East, where many Kenyans earn their livelihood, contributing significantly to diaspora remittances,” he said.
Mudavadi was accompanied by several senior government officials, including Vihiga County Governor Wilber K. Ottichilo and Principal Secretary for Diaspora Affairs Roseline Njogu. Njogu reiterated the government’s commitment to eliminating rogue employment agencies by ensuring they are registered under the National Employment Authority (NEA). She urged the youth to verify the credibility of agencies to avoid being duped.
Governor Ottichilo called for expedited processing of passports and national IDs for the youth, stressing that quick access to these documents is crucial for those seeking employment abroad. He also praised Alex Chamwada, a notable advocate for youth empowerment through his ‘Daring Abroad’ program, for inspiring young Kenyans to explore opportunities abroad.
“We are here to prepare young people for global opportunities. But we must be honest: choices have consequences,” Ottichilo said.
The Kazi Majuu Job Fair, attended by senior government officials, stakeholders, and leaders, aims to empower young Kenyans by connecting them with potential employers and providing resources to facilitate their entry into the global job market.
