Kenya’s Diaspora Remittances Jump 18% to Nearly $5bn, Government Says

Kenya has recorded a significant rise in money sent home by its citizens abroad, with diaspora remittances climbing by about 18 per cent to almost $5 billion in 2024, reinforcing their growing role in national development.

The government disclosed that inflows from Kenyans living and working overseas reached between $4.94 billion and $4.95 billion, translating to roughly KSh 640 billion. Officials described the surge as evidence of the expanding economic footprint of the Kenyan diaspora despite global economic pressures.

Speaking at an international migration forum in Geneva, Kenya reiterated that well-managed migration remains a strategic asset. The country noted that migration, when properly governed, supports economic resilience, skills transfer and broader socio-economic progress for both origin and destination countries.

Authorities emphasised that diaspora contributions extend beyond remittances to include investments, entrepreneurship, and the transfer of professional expertise and knowledge. These inputs, the government said, align with Kenya’s long-term development and transformation agenda.

Kenya also highlighted ongoing reforms aimed at improving migration governance, including visa policy adjustments, electronic travel authorisation, new permit categories and stronger border management systems designed to make migration safer and more predictable.

In addition, the government confirmed it is working towards finalising its first National Migration Policy by mid-2026, a move expected to consolidate existing commitments and strengthen coordination across institutions.

On refugee management, Kenya reaffirmed its shift from emergency aid to socio-economic inclusion through integrated settlement models, stressing the need for stronger international partnerships and sustainable financing to support migration as a shared global responsibility.