Diaspora Affairs Principal Secretary Roseline Njogu on Tuesday emphasized the potential of Kenyans abroad to contribute to the nation’s progress by addressing unemployment, boosting the economy, and fostering knowledge transfer.
Her assertions come in light of a recent diaspora engagement forum held in Minnesota, USA on Tuesday, May 28th. The forum brought together officials from the Foreign Affairs Ministry and Kenyans residing in the United States. The event aimed to establish a platform for collaboration between the government and its skilled and experienced diaspora population. One key takeaway from the forum centered on job creation with the PS recognizing the talent pool within the diaspora. The government seeks to actively connect skilled Kenyans abroad with employment opportunities back home.
The forum also addressed labor mobility. The Ruto administration is currently negotiating labor agreements with various countries, aiming to facilitate the overseas employment of 2,500 Kenyans per week. This program promises to reduce national unemployment and also strengthen the economy through increased diaspora remittances. Investment opportunities formed another crucial aspect of the forum. Kenyans living abroad are encouraged to consider investing in their homeland. The government highlights several sectors ripe for investment, including Special Economic Zones offering tax breaks and simplified regulations.
The agricultural sector also presents significant opportunities with its potential for modernization and export-oriented value addition. Additionally, the forum emphasized the booming Information Communication and Technology (ICT) sector, where innovations in mobile banking, e-commerce, and digital services are thriving. Beyond these specific areas, healthcare, renewable energy, and infrastructure development were also mentioned as promising avenues for diaspora investment.
The forum went beyond financial investment, recognizing the value of skills and knowledge transfer. Kenyans abroad possess expertise in diverse fields that can significantly benefit local industries. Collaborative efforts between diasporans and local professionals can enhance capacity building and drive innovation, fueling national growth across various sectors.
Before we move to job…
Before we move to job creation for our compatriots, let’s address the vast openings that have not been filled for awhile.
Not too long ago, news of over 4000 doctors being un employed for years after graduation is distressing. Why are they not employed- in the midst of their ever unending demand?
Right now there is a shortage of teachers.Yes I am serious?.If you ask me, we have a glut of Mpigs. We need to reduce the number.We truly have a bloated government… We need more doctors,and teachers. As long as we are alive,and reproducing,these two fields will never go dry.So why do we have doctors being unemployed?.Why do we have to go to Cuba,when our own home grown are unemployed?
Of course Iam for diaspora investing in the mother country to boost the economy,and alleviate unemployment pains.But the government must do its part in creating attractive climate for investment. First we have to bring corruption to negligible levels, second, we must solve our energy problems,third reduce crime.And forth, let’s have a diaspora day. With all these millions we send to Kenya, we need a day for recognition. I suggest on 10th of October My birthday.
It doesn’t work like that in…
It doesn’t work like that in United States! You hire the best fits for the job no matter where they come from, Kenyans needs to move away from corrupt mentality as well as real corruption and nepotism!!!