Why Deputy President William Ruto wants diaspora Somalis back home

By DPPS

KENYA: Kenya has asked people of Somalia to return and build their country.

Speaking during a conference on Somalia in Yokohama, Japan, Deputy President William Ruto said it was only the locals who could  help stabilise their country.

"The Somali population should return and return and rebuild their country,” he said

The Deputy President spoke as other world leaders praised Kenya's role in bringing stability in Somalia.

Among those who praised Kenya's role include Japan Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki Moon, Tanzania President Jakaya Kikwete,  Ethiopia Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn and South Sudan's Salva Kiiir.

Ruto said although Somalia requires international assistance, it was the duty of Somalis in the diaspora to reconstruct and stabilise their country.

Kenya, he added, was in talks with the Government of Somalia and United Nations High Commissioner of Refugees (UNHCR) for the safe return of refugees back to Somalia.

"We will soon have a Nairobi conference on repatriation of refugees...we appeal for assistance so that this exercise can be successful."

The Deputy President said Kenya had played a major role in dealing with the insecurity posed by the Al Shabab and trained more than 2500 soldiers.

Mr Kikwete said security in East Africa can only be guaranteed if Somalia was peaceful adding that most countries in the region suffered terror attacks perpetuated by individuals from the country.

Mr Abe said Japan will work with other countries and Somali government to ensure normalcy was realised.

"We will vigorously support those who want Somalia stabilised in addition to enhancing the capacity of the police in the country and ensuring good socio-economic condition," the Japan PM added.

He said a secure Somalia was good for the East African countries.

Mr Kiir said the international community should assist to eliminate terrorist elements who have made Somalia their haven.

Mr Desalegn said the African Union was doing its best to promote security and return of Somalia citizens.