Empowering Diaspora Investments: Insights from Nairobi Workshop
Representatives from several countries, including Kenya, Uganda, Zimbabwe, South Sudan, Madagascar, Ethiopia, and Somalia also engaged in discussions, sharing insights and best practices to overcome challenges that impede diaspora investment.
On June 3, 2025, the three-day workshop titled “Unlocking the Potential of Diaspora Investment in the East and Horn of Africa” commenced in Nairobi, organized by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in partnership with the African Union.
This significant event brought together a diverse assembly of stakeholders, including representatives from international organizations, governments, and the private sector, with the aim of co-creating robust policies and institutional frameworks to maximize the contributions of diaspora communities.
“Represented by Ambassador Isaiah Kabira, Secretary for Diaspora Investments, Skills, and Entrepreneurship, emphasized the importance of streamlining diaspora engagement to build resilient economies, enhance regional cooperation, and accelerate progress toward the SDGs and the African Union’s Agenda 2063,” said the State Department of Diaspora Affairs through a post on X.
The Principal Secretary for Diaspora Affairs Roseline Njogu also addressed the gathering, urging countries to harness the power of diaspora diplomacy. She highlighted that diaspora members play a multifaceted role, not only sending remittances but also facilitating trade, boosting tourism, and transferring essential skills and technology to their home countries.
Njogu pointed out a critical insight: over 80% of remittances are typically used for consumption, leaving only a small fraction for savings and productive investments. She called for strategic engagement and investment facilitation, particularly in key sectors such as infrastructure, technology and innovation, renewable energy, agribusiness, and manufacturing.
The workshop attracted key figures from various organizations, including Mr. Islam Swaleh, Head of Entrepreneurship and Investment at the African Union Commission’s Directorate of Industry, Minerals, Entrepreneurship, and Tourism, and Mr. Faisal Sharif, Deputy Chief of Mission at IOM/UN Migration Kenya.
Other notable participants included Ms. Caroline Akishule, Country Economist at the African Development Bank, and Mr. Malambo Moonga, Senior Regional Specialist on Labour Migration and Development at IOM/UN Migration EHSA.
Representatives from several countries, including Kenya, Uganda, Zimbabwe, South Sudan, Madagascar, Ethiopia, and Somalia also engaged in discussions, sharing insights and best practices to overcome challenges that impede diaspora investment.
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