President William Ruto has praised Kenyans living and working abroad for their vital role in transforming the country’s economy, highlighting record-high diaspora remittances that have significantly boosted foreign reserves and spurred investment back home.
Speaking during a meeting with representatives of the Kenyan diaspora from 27 countries at State House, Nairobi, President Ruto emphasized the government’s commitment to deepening engagement with citizens abroad.
“We appreciate the crucial contribution of Kenyans who live and work abroad in the transformation of our country,” Ruto said. “Through the State Department of Diaspora Affairs, we have taken deliberate steps to formulate policies that help harness their immense competencies, skills and resources in national development.”
According to the President, diaspora remittances now stand at an all-time high of $10.8 billion (KSh1.39 trillion), strengthening Kenya’s foreign reserves and supporting millions of families across the country. In the past two years alone, remittances have surged from $4 billion (KSh516 billion) in 2022 to $4.95 billion (KSh638 billion) in 2024.
President Ruto underscored the importance of these funds not only in family and community support but also in investment and stabilizing the nation’s balance of payments.
The Head of State was joined by the Principal Secretary for Diaspora Affairs, Roseline Njogu, who reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting diaspora interests and creating pathways for sustained engagement in national development.
Ruto encouraged more structured partnerships between the diaspora and key development sectors including housing, health, education, and technology.
The State Department of Diaspora Affairs has recently introduced programs aimed at easing remittance processes, providing financial education, and supporting diaspora-led development initiatives across counties.
The President’s remarks mark a continued effort to recognize the diaspora as a key pillar in Kenya’s economic transformation agenda.
