This archive report was first published on 18 December 2019.
December 18, 2019
Devolution Cabinet Secretary Eugene Wamalwa has underscored the government's commitment to recognizing the significant contributions of Kenyans in the diaspora to the country's development.
Speaking at the launch of the 6th Annual Kenya Diaspora Homecoming Convention in Nairobi, CS Wamalwa noted that President Uhuru Kenyatta has consistently expressed his support for a more structured engagement with the diaspora.
This, he said, is due to the diaspora's remittances having surpassed traditional foreign exchange earners such as coffee, tea, flowers, and tourism.
"That's why we now refer to the diaspora as our 48th county, which is the largest and most influential," CS Wamalwa said.
He added that the Ministry of Devolution is working to structure a framework that will enable counties to benefit from diaspora remittances and investments.
"The diaspora policy is now operational. The money you are remitting is helping spur development in the counties. The Big 4 Agenda fits within the devolved system. We want to see how we can structure engagement between diaspora and the counties," CS Wamalwa said.
He emphasized the importance of diaspora participation in the country's politics, stating that their investments can only be safeguarded if they participate in the political processes.
"We hope that you are making recommendations to the BBI team. Keep engaging the team so that whatever changes that are coming you are part of it," CS Wamalwa said.
