Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has announced the Kenyan government’s plan to establish a diaspora board that will secure investments for Kenyans living abroad. Speaking to Kenyans in Botswana during an official visit, Gachagua said that the State Department for Diaspora Affairs is working on the framework, which will ensure the safety of the investment of Kenyans living in the diaspora. The board will guarantee an investment forum that will allow Kenyans to invest back home and ensure that their savings are safe.
Gachagua explained that the government will work with credible real estate developers to construct homes for Kenyans abroad through a government guarantee. The constructions will be supervised to completion by the government to avoid fraudulent real estate agencies and to ensure that the investment is safe. He also encouraged Kenyans living abroad to save their money at home since it can be borrowed by the government for development instead of going to China for loans.
In addition, the Kenyan government has permanently posted an officer of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission in Botswana’s capital, Gaborone, to address immigration matters, including passport applications and renewals.
Gachagua also stated that the government is open to discussions about representation in parliament for Kenyans living abroad but that the law would need to be amended before the request is implemented. The government is also working on reforming Kenya Airways and will consider setting up direct flights to Gaborone when the airline returns to full and profitable operations.
During his visit to Botswana, Gachagua represented President William Ruto at the second edition of Forbes 30 under 30 Summit Africa. He also held several bilateral meetings, including with the host President Dr Eric Mokgweetsi Masisi, to ensure that Kenyans in the country get work permits with ease.
The diaspora board is expected to be a significant development that will provide a secure and reliable investment opportunity for Kenyans living abroad. It will encourage Kenyans to invest back home, which will result in more development and economic growth for the country.
