Kenya Diaspora Policy 2014

Abstract

This Diaspora Policy is a response to the urgent need for mainstreaming the Kenyan Diaspora into national development process in line with the aspirations and goals of the Kenya Vision 2030 development blueprint. The Kenya Vision 2030 recognizes Diaspora contribution as a critical component to the growth of our economy and in the achievement of our overarching vision of a globally competitive and prosperous Kenya by the year 2030. The Kenyan Diaspora consists of people of Kenya origin and non-resident Kenyans residing outside the country. It is well documented that Diaspora account for significant share of the Kenyan GDP. Similarly, the contribution of the Diaspora in terms of skills, expertise and transfer of knowledge to Kenya is invaluable though this potential is not yet fully developed or harnessed. The broad objective of this policy is to empower Kenyans abroad to effectively make greater contribution to the development of the country. To actualize this objective, the following strategies have been identified: enhancing capacity to offer consular services, reducing the high cost of money remittance, developing an incentive framework for promoting Diaspora participation in national development, tapping into Diaspora skills, knowledge and expertise, and encouraging participation of Kenyans citizens abroad in the democratic processes in the country among others