Berlin, Germany — Kenyans living abroad could soon participate directly in national elections from their host countries, following a major commitment by former Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka.
Speaking during the International Berlin Prayer Breakfast in Berlin, Germany, Musyoka assured members of the Kenyan diaspora that the government is actively pursuing electoral reforms that will allow overseas citizens to vote without traveling back home.
Diaspora Voting Rights Set to Expand
Musyoka emphasized that Kenya is aligning itself with global democratic practices by enabling citizens living abroad to exercise their constitutional right to vote.
“We will ensure that your right to vote abroad—and for that vote to be counted—is included in the new electoral laws,” he stated.
If implemented, the reforms would place Kenya among progressive nations that recognize diaspora voting as a critical part of inclusive governance.
Push for Affordable Remittance Solutions
In addition to voting rights, the government is also addressing long-standing concerns over the high cost of sending money back home.
Musyoka revealed that the Ministry of Finance and the Central Bank of Kenya are working on frameworks to make remittances cheaper and more accessible.
Currently, many Kenyans abroad rely on services like Western Union and MoneyGram, which diaspora communities say charge significantly high fees.
Decline in Diaspora Remittances Raises Concern
The government has expressed concern over a sharp drop in remittance inflows, which are a vital source of foreign exchange for Kenya.
According to Musyoka:
- Remittances declined from KSh 70 billion to KSh 40 billion
- The drop is partly attributed to the global financial crisis
- High transaction costs are discouraging transfers
This decline has prompted urgent policy discussions to safeguard diaspora contributions to Kenya’s economy.
Government Focus on Unity and Economic Growth
Musyoka reiterated the government’s commitment to rebuilding national unity and accelerating economic development.
Key priorities highlighted include:
- Advancing national healing and reconciliation
- Delivering a new constitution
- Promoting devolution of resources to constituencies
- Creating jobs and reducing rural-to-urban migration
“We are determined to build a strong and united country,” Musyoka said.
Diaspora Raises Concerns Over Land Ownership
Kenyans living in Germany, led by diaspora representative Chris Bwire, voiced concerns over increasing foreign ownership of land and property in Kenya’s major towns.
They called on the government to safeguard local ownership and ensure fair access to land for Kenyan citizens.
Dual Citizenship Gains Momentum
Also present at the event was Budalangi MP Ababu Namwamba, who reassured the diaspora that dual citizenship provisions are gaining widespread support.
Namwamba, a key member of the Parliamentary Select Committee on Constitutional Review, expressed optimism about the country’s constitutional future.
“Kenyans have learned the futility of moving alone. We will achieve a new constitutional dispensation sooner rather than later,” he said.
What This Means for the Kenyan Diaspora
If implemented, these reforms could significantly transform the relationship between Kenya and its global diaspora by:
- Enhing political participation abroad
- Reducing remittance costs
- Strengthening economic ties
- Expanding rights through dual citizenship
For millions of Kenyans living overseas, these changes represent a long-awaited recognition of their contribution to national development.
