Lobby plans convention to woo Kenyans in Diaspora

Kenya Diaspora Alliance’s Global Chairman, Dr. Shem Ochuodho speakingon Thursday November 30, during the launch of the 4th edition of the Kenya Diaspora Homecoming Convention that will take place at Strathmore University from December 13 to 15, 2017. (James Wanzala, Standard)

The Kenya Diaspora Alliance will host the 4th edition of the Kenya Diaspora Homecoming Convention at Strathmore University from December 13 to 15, 2017.

The event will showcase investment opportunities in Kenya while nurturing and fostering investor confidence.

It will also offer a platform for stakeholders to converge, network, transact and share success stories from across the globe. Among the keynote speakers set to address the convention include Education Cabinet Secretary, Dr Fred Matiang’i, Youth Fund Chairman Ronald Osumba. The event will bring together renowned business leaders and investors, focusing on investments, public-private partnerships, youth engagement and governance.

Community’s contribution

Opportunities at the national and county government levels will also be discussed.

Speaking during the launch held at Strathmore University last week, Kenya Diaspora Alliance’s Global Chairman Dr Shem Ochuodho (pictured) said the diaspora community’s contribution to both the economic and political development of the country cannot be ignored.

“For a population that sends back home more than Sh20 billion annually, the diaspora community is a force that cannot be ignored,” Ochuodho said.

“This convention will provide a platform for discussions that will enable the country tap into these monies to grow the economy at a larger scale.”

The money sent into the country by Kenyans working abroad is set to grow at a slower rate to reach Sh185 billion this year from last year’s Sh177 billion.

According to data by the Central Bank, Kenyans working abroad sent home Sh106 billion ($1.03 billion) between January and July this year, compared to Sh101 billion ($987 million) over the first seven months of 2017.

Strathmore University Director External Relations Eric Saulo lauded the move.