West Pokot residents have been urged to secure passports to capitalize on employment, business, and other international opportunities without facing delays, according to Boaz Moilem, State Department for Immigration and Citizen Services. Speaking during the fourth day of Diaspora Mashinani engagements in West Pokot County, Moilem emphasized that passports should be treated as essential documents rather than acquired only when traveling. He warned that last-minute applications could lead to congestion-related delays, potentially causing residents to miss critical opportunities. The event, organized by the State Department for Diaspora Affairs (SDDA) in collaboration with National Government Administration Officers (NGAOs), also aimed to educate the public on safe and legal migration pathways.
Moilem cautioned against using unofficial border crossings, noting that illegal migration could hinder Kenyans' access to assistance abroad. He recommended designated border points such as Suam, Lwakhakha, Malaba, and Busia for travel to Uganda, where proper documentation can be processed. The sensitization forums, led by Jennifer Wanami of the Skills and Expertise Division, targeted students and job seekers, promoting the government’s online passport application system as a convenient alternative. Wanami highlighted the role of the Diaspora Placement Agency (DPA), a semi-autonomous body under SDDA, in connecting skilled Kenyans to employment opportunities abroad through legal channels.
The SDDA team outlined its mandate to protect Kenyans overseas, facilitate dialogue with the diaspora, and support employment and enterprise development. Participants were also briefed on the Kazi Majuu program, which aims to formalize labor mobility and ensure safe, orderly migration. Wanami stressed that the DPA provides a structured mechanism for Kenyans to access international employment without resorting to risky or informal routes. The forums emphasized the importance of legal documentation in securing assistance and avoiding complications during overseas stays.
In addition to passport advocacy, the event highlighted broader initiatives to strengthen community ties and economic opportunities. Baragoi residents were urged to maintain peaceful coexistence, while children were encouraged to prioritize education. These efforts align with the government’s broader strategy to foster sustainable development and empower Kenyans through informed decision-making and legal frameworks for international engagement.