Kenya Unveils Ambitious Plan to Integrate Diaspora into National Development

Kenya is implementing a new ten-pillar strategy to harness the potential of its diaspora, moving beyond a reliance on remittances to actively integrating their skills and investments into national development. 

The policy shift, formalised in Executive Order No. 1 of 2025, expands the mandate of the State Department for Diaspora Affairs (SDDA) and signals a concerted effort to transform Kenyans living abroad into key partners in the country's economic growth. The initiative comes as diaspora remittances surpassed KSh 600 billion in 2024, underscoring the significant economic impact of Kenyans abroad. 

The strategy acknowledges the need to go beyond financial contributions, aiming to incorporate the skills, knowledge, and expertise of diaspora professionals. A core component of the new framework is the establishment of the Diaspora Investment Support Office (DISO). This office is designed to address long-standing concerns about investment security and fraudulent schemes that have plagued diaspora investors in the past. 

DISO will provide a structured, secure platform to guide diaspora investments and ensure sustainable economic outcomes. In addition to safeguarding investments, the revamped SDDA mandate includes economic empowerment programs like the Diaspora Placement Agency (DPA), Dereva Majuu, and Mkulima Majuu. These initiatives seek to connect Kenyan workers and entrepreneurs with global opportunities through transparent and ethical recruitment channels, underpinned by bilateral labour agreements. 

In order to further address this, the Kenyan government established NCLEX testing centres in Kenya to streamline the certification process for nurses seeking global employment. The policy also focuses on enhancing diaspora participation in national governance. 

The government plans to host diaspora forums and conduct structured policy consultations to ensure diaspora concerns are incorporated into national policy-making. This move aims to create a more inclusive decision-making process. The expanded policy framework indicates a shift in approach. Kenya's diaspora is no longer viewed solely as a source of financial support but as a valuable asset with diverse skills, expertise, and perspectives.