Kenya has announced a renewed push to strengthen its economic ties with citizens living abroad through a fresh investment blueprint unveiled by Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi.
The new strategy, covering 2025 to 2030, aims to position diaspora remittances as a key contributor to national development rather than a purely household-support resource.
The launch comes at a time when remittances continue to outperform traditional foreign exchange earners such as tea and tourism. Government records have consistently shown that money sent home by Kenyans abroad plays a stabilizing role in the balance of payments, especially during economic slowdowns.
This has placed diaspora engagement at the centre of policy discussions under the Kenya Kwanza administration.
During the launch, Mudavadi said the investment framework is intended to give Kenyans overseas clearer options on how to direct their resources into productive ventures.
According to the statement he issued, the roadmap outlines potential investment areas including housing, infrastructure, industrial development and innovation.
He added that the strategy is designed to rebuild trust and expand avenues for meaningful investment.
The initiative also features an updated Digital Remittance Handbook, developed in partnership with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and other contributors.
Mudavadi noted that the handbook offers guidance on secure digital channels, financial management and identifying credible opportunities in Kenya. The move aligns with ongoing reforms to modernize financial services and reduce exposure to fraud.
Kenya has previously struggled with fragmented policies on diaspora affairs, leading to calls for a more coordinated approach.
The new plan seeks to address these concerns by offering standardised information and transparent procedures that can be used by individuals and diaspora investment groups.
The government maintains that the strategy is not only about mobilising funds but also tapping into skills, innovation and specialised knowledge held by Kenyans working in global markets.
Mudavadi emphasised in his statement that the diaspora remains a central partner in shaping Kenya’s long-term socio-economic transformation.
He said the government intends to keep engaging stakeholders as the rollout continues.
Further operational guidelines are expected in the coming months as agencies align their roles under the new framework.
The Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, in coordination with financial regulators, is expected to provide detailed timelines for adoption.
The government says the success of the strategy will depend on collaboration between state institutions, development partners and the Kenyan diaspora community.