This archive report was first published on 27 October 2019.
Published on October 27, 2019, by Makaumutua, a SUNY Distinguished Professor at SUNY Buffalo Law School and Chair of KHRC.
Kenya's relationship with its diaspora community is complex and often one-sided. While Kenyans abroad have a deep affection for their homeland, the feeling is not always reciprocated.
Discrimination against Kenyans in the diaspora is enshrined in the 2010 Constitution, which prohibits dual citizens from holding certain elective and appointive offices. This has led to the denial of opportunities for individuals like Mwende Mwinzi, a Kenyan-born US citizen who was recently blocked from serving as Kenya's ambassador to South Korea.
Mwende's story is a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by Kenyans in the diaspora. Born to a Kenyan father and a white American mother, Mwende has spent her life giving back to her community, founding the charity Twana Twitu and investing her resources in Kenya.
Despite her impressive credentials, Mwende's dual citizenship has been used against her, denying her the opportunity to serve her country. This is not an isolated incident, as many Kenyans in the diaspora face similar challenges.
Remittances from Kenyans abroad are a critical source of foreign exchange for Kenya, with diasporans sending over $2.47 billion in 2018. However, this contribution is often overlooked, and Kenyans in the diaspora are frequently treated as second-class citizens.
It's time for this to change. The Building Bridges Initiative must address the constitutional and legal barriers that prevent dual citizens from fully participating in Kenyan society. By doing so, Kenya can tap into the expertise and resources of its diaspora community, benefiting from their contributions and fostering a more inclusive and equitable society.
As Makaumutua notes, 'You can't continue to love our money and votes and hate us.' It's time for Kenyans at home to recognize the value of their diaspora community and work towards a more inclusive and equitable future.
