Deputy President Kithure Kindiki stated that diaspora remittances now lead Kenya’s foreign exchange earnings, surpassing Sh500 billion. He aims to grow these remittances to one trillion shillings, recognizing the crucial role of the diaspora in national development. Kindiki also addressed the concerns of Kenyan professionals in Namibia regarding immigration and trade issues, assuring prompt resolution.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki announced that diaspora remittances have become Kenya’s leading source of foreign exchange, exceeding Sh500 billion. During a meeting with Kenyan representatives in Namibia, he highlighted the crucial role these remittances play in supporting the tea and tourism sectors, which historically dominated foreign earnings. Kindiki expressed gratitude to the diaspora community for their contributions to national development, stating, “Diaspora remittances now have overtaken the traditional tea tourism and so forth, which for the last about 40 years, have been the leading earners of foreign exchange for Kenya.”
Kindiki outlined the government’s ambitious plan to boost remittances to one trillion shillings, emphasizing the special significance of the diaspora in Kenya’s growth. He referred to this goal as part of the Kenya Kwanza manifesto. The Deputy President affirmed, “Our target, of course, in the manifesto of Kenya Kwanza is to get a trillion remittances. We place diaspora in a very special place, because you are helping develop our country, and we value that input.”
During the session, Kenyan professionals in Namibia raised various concerns about immigration, travel logistics, and trade issues, urging the government to address these challenges promptly. Kindiki assured attendees that the administration was committed to resolving these matters swiftly, stating, “The things you’ve said here, it is in our interest as a country to unlock all of them without exception.”
Kindiki met with diaspora representatives following the funeral of Namibia’s founding President, Sam Nujoma, where he represented President William Ruto. The discussions focused on enhancing cooperation and support for Kenyans abroad, aiming to strengthen ties between the diaspora and the government in addressing their concerns.
In conclusion, Kenya’s Deputy President Kindiki recognizes the significant impact of diaspora remittances on the national economy, aiming to escalate these inflows to one trillion shillings. He encourages the diaspora’s role in development while committing to resolving their identified challenges. This marks a strategic shift in prioritizing remittances as a crucial component of foreign exchange earnings, surpassing traditional sectors.
Original Source: www.the-star.co.ke
