Africa

Ambassador Makoloo Engages Kenyan Diaspora in Slovakia for Stronger Ties and Support

Kenyan officials engage diaspora, discuss unity, support, and national development opportunities abroad

December 02nd, 2024
Dimitra Mastoraki, News from Berlin
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On November 17, 2024, the Kenyan Embassy and Permanent Mission in Vienna, led by Ambassador Maurice Makoloo, hosted a pivotal meet-and-greet with the Kenyan Diaspora community in Slovakia. The event, which featured Roseline Kathure Njogu, CBS, Principal Secretary of the State Department for Diaspora Affairs in the Republic of Kenya, provided an opportunity for meaningful engagement and discussions on strengthening connections and enhancing support for Kenyans living abroad.

Ambassador Makoloo underscored the importance of fostering unity among Kenyans abroad, particularly in countries with smaller diaspora communities such as Slovakia. Principal Secretary Njogu, a distinguished lawyer, academic, and public servant, reiterated the government’s dedication to addressing the needs of its citizens overseas. The Kenyan Diaspora in Europe has grown into a dynamic and impactful community. From the UK to Germany and Scandinavia, Kenyans have made significant contributions in fields like healthcare, academia, information technology, and business. While the Kenyan community in Slovakia is smaller, it plays an equally vital role in fostering cultural exchange and advancing professional networks.

The State Department for Diaspora Affairs was established to ensure that Kenyans abroad are not only recognized but also empowered to thrive both in their host countries and in their contributions to Kenya. By promoting investment opportunities, enhancing access to consular support, and advocating for policies that reflect the interests of the Diaspora, the department serves as a crucial link between the government and its global citizens. Efforts to encourage dual citizenship, voting rights, and participation in national development initiatives are key aspects of its mission.

The meet-and-greet event  was a testament to the Kenyan government’s commitment to maintaining a close relationship with its Diaspora. Such engagements not only strengthen the bond between Kenyans in the Diaspora and their homeland but also reinforce the invaluable role they play in Kenya’s social, economic, and cultural development. By listening to their concerns and celebrating their contributions, Kenya ensures that its citizens remain connected and integral to the nation’s progress, no matter where they reside

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News from Berlin