Why Kenyans Abroad Are Choosing to Return Home After Years Overseas

 A growing number of Kenyans who ventured abroad for education and professional opportunities are returning home, bringing with them a wealth of experience and a renewed appreciation for their roots. 

These returnees often face a unique set of challenges and opportunities as they reintegrate into Kenyan society, contributing to the country's economic and social development. Every year, thousands of Kenyans leave their homeland in search of education, professional advancement, and the promise of a better life beyond the country’s borders. While life overseas often offers stability, exposure, and success, the transition is rarely without its challenges. From culture shock and homesickness to the deep-rooted emotional connection to Kenya, many in the diaspora grapple with complex feelings about their new reality. 

For some, after years of forging careers and identities abroad, the pull of home proves irresistible, prompting a return to familiar soil. The initial motivation for Kenyans to move abroad is often driven by the pursuit of higher education or better career prospects. Many seek to acquire specialised skills and international experience that they believe will enhance their career opportunities upon their return. However, the transition to life in a foreign country is rarely seamless.

One of the most common challenges faced by Kenyans abroad is culture shock. The differences in social norms, customs, and values can be jarring, leading to feelings of isolation and disorientation. Language barriers, unfamiliar food, and different communication styles can further exacerbate these feelings. Dorcas Mbugua, who spent a decade in Australia, experienced culture shock firsthand when she arrived in Adelaide at the age of 19. 

"The stark contrast between Nairobi and Adelaide was immediately apparent," she recalls. "The roads were empty, the city was unnervingly quiet, and the air was crisp and dust-free. Even the impeccable infrastructure was an unfamiliar sight, no potholes, no traffic congestion."

Mbugua also struggled with loneliness and the feeling of being an outsider. "As a Kenyan, I had grown up surrounded by family and community, immersed in an environment where people shared their lives freely. In Australia, social interactions were more reserved, people kept to themselves, and personal connections took time to develop."

In addition to culture shock, Kenyans abroad often face discrimination and prejudice. Mbugua recalls being asked ignorant questions about Africa, such as "How do you know English?" or "When did you start wearing clothes?" Despite these challenges, many Kenyans persevere, determined to complete their studies or advance their careers. They find ways to adapt to their new environment, build support networks, and maintain connections with their homeland.

After years of living abroad, many Kenyans begin to feel a longing for home. The desire to be closer to family and friends, to reconnect with their culture, and to contribute to the development of their country becomes increasingly strong. For some, the decision to return is driven by personal reasons, such as a desire to raise their children in Kenya or to care for ageing parents. Others are motivated by professional opportunities, such as the chance to start a business or to work in a sector that is experiencing growth in Kenya.

Sara Mueller-Issa Okello, who spent 21 years in Switzerland, always knew that she would eventually return to Kenya. "I always told my children, 'I'm here to make sure you have stability. Once you do, I'll go back home." Okello fulfilled her promise to herself and returned to Kenya after her children had grown up. She now lives in Kilifi, where she dedicates her time to farming and running a Community-Based Organisation.

While returning home can be a joyous occasion, it is not without its challenges. Returnees often experience reverse culture shock, as they adjust to the differences between life abroad and life in Kenya. Mbugua recalls feeling overwhelmed by the chaos and traffic when she returned to Nairobi after a year and a half in Australia.

"I hadn't seen traffic in so long. I walked through town, and the chaos overwhelmed me. People bumped into me without apologising. It was all so unfamiliar after the orderliness of Australia."

Returnees may also struggle to find suitable employment or to start a business in Kenya. They may find that their skills and experience are not valued or that they lack the necessary networks to succeed. Despite these challenges, Kenyan returnees make significant contributions to the country's economic and social development. They bring with them new ideas, skills, and perspectives that can help to drive innovation and growth. 

They also serve as role models for other Kenyans, inspiring them to pursue their dreams and to contribute to the development of their country. Mbugua, who now works as a recruiter for an Australian university, helps East African students secure academic opportunities abroad. She is passionate about helping young Kenyans access the same opportunities that she had. Okello, through her work with a Community-Based organisation, is helping to improve the lives of people in her community. She is committed to using her skills and experience to make a difference in Kenya.

The Kenyan government recognises the importance of the diaspora and has taken steps to encourage them to return home. The government has established a diaspora desk to provide information and support to Kenyans abroad. It has also created incentives for diaspora investment and has worked to improve the business environment in Kenya. 

The journey of Kenyans abroad is one of opportunity, identity, and return. While life abroad offers many advantages, the emotional ties to home remain strong.  For those who return, they bring with them invaluable lessons and experiences that can shape their perspectives, careers, and contributions to Kenyan society.