Kenyan Professionals in Australia Inspire New Investment Hub in Elgeyo Marakwet

Elgeyo Marakwet Governor Wisley Rotich has concluded a week-long tour of Australia, announcing plans to establish a Diaspora Liaison Office in his county to facilitate investment from Kenyan expatriates. 

The initiative follows meetings with Kenyan professionals across major Australian cities, including Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, Brisbane, Adelaide, and the Northern Territory, who are excelling in sectors from healthcare to agriculture. Rotich’s visit, which concluded recently, focused on tapping into the potential of the Kenyan diaspora to contribute to economic development in Elgeyo Marakwet. He met with professionals and entrepreneurs operating in diverse fields, witnessing firsthand their success and innovation.

Key among his encounters were celebrations honouring Kenyan students Lornah Jerono and Muthoni, recognised at an international graduation ceremony for their academic achievements. The governor emphasised the high regard held for Kenyan students in Australian academic and professional circles. Further discussions with entrepreneurs who have established successful ventures such as Ausicare College, Tunza Care, and Veli Healthcare, as well as a Kenyan dairy farmer in New Zealand, reinforced the value of diaspora expertise. 

Rotich believes that Kenyans abroad possess valuable knowledge and skills that can be leveraged for national development. The newly announced Diaspora Liaison Office will serve as a focal point for engaging with Kenyans abroad, providing guidance on investment opportunities in sectors identified as key for growth in Elgeyo Marakwet. These include agro-processing, software development, real estate, hospitality, and sustainable farming. Rotich emphasised the county's commitment to creating a transparent and secure investment environment, branding Elgeyo Marakwet as "the County of Champions."

To further solidify the county's commitment, the Elgeyo Marakwet government plans to introduce a bill to the County Assembly. This legislation will formalise a structured approach to diaspora-led investment, with a particular focus on the forthcoming county industrial park. The governor believes that these policy initiatives will offer Kenyan expatriates a viable avenue for contributing to local economic growth, while also benefiting from sustainable investment opportunities.

Rotich expressed gratitude for the warm reception he received and highlighted the diaspora's networks as vital resources for Kenyan students seeking educational opportunities abroad. Kenya’s High Commissioner to Australia, Amb. Dr. Wilson Kogo, accompanied Rotich on the tour, signifying the national government's recognition of the diaspora's critical role in national development.