Speaker of the National Assembly Moses Wetang’ula has called on Kenyan diplomats to prioritize economic diplomacy and deepen ties with the diaspora to boost Kenya’s development.
Speaking during a meeting with Kenya’s ambassador to the U.S., David Kerich, and embassy staff in Washington, D.C., Wetang’ula emphasized the strategic importance of the U.S. capital in shaping Kenya’s global partnerships.
"Washington is not just another diplomatic post; it is the seat of the World Bank, IMF, and the heartbeat of global decision-making," Wetang’ula stated. "Engaging effectively here means opening doors for Kenya’s growth, attracting investments, and securing beneficial trade agreements."The Speaker urged the ambassadors to focus on economic issues that could help Kenya tap into the vast opportunities presented by the World leader, including trade with the U.S., Canada, and other regions in the Americas.
A significant part of Wetang’ula’s address focused on the Kenyan diaspora, particularly the need to engage second and third-generation Kenyans living in the U.S., who, he noted, are becoming increasingly disconnected from their ancestral roots.
"The old model of the diaspora was simple—sending money home to parents. But now, we have generations born here who have little connection to Kenya," Wetang’ula remarked. "We need to reconnect them, offer incentives, and encourage them to invest back home. Their contributions are vital through remittances, investments, and public-private partnerships."Wetang’ula highlighted the need for a comprehensive database of Kenyans living in the U.S., acknowledging past challenges due to suspicions around their immigration status.
"Whether they came here legitimately or otherwise, they are still Kenyans. We must find ways to regularize their status and help them feel part of the country," he added.On trade, Wetang’ula was candid about Kenya’s underperformance in leveraging the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which allows duty-free exports to the U.S.
“We punch below our weight,” he said. “Bangladesh, without AGOA benefits, exports more apparel to the U.S. than the entire African continent combined. We must fully exploit AGOA, attract investors to our Export Processing Zones (EPZs), and expand our value-added exports.”
Wetang’ula urged the diplomats to push for AGOA’s renewal, warning that its expiration could hurt Kenya’s export potential.
"We are a young economy. AGOA and similar initiatives are lifelines that we must fight to preserve," he noted.The Speaker also used the platform to highlight Kenya’s domestic achievements under President William Ruto’s administration. He pointed to strides in agriculture, education, and regional diplomacy.
"When President Ruto took office, fertilizer cost Ksh 7,000 per bag. Today, it’s Ksh 2,500, ensuring food security for the past two years," Wetang’ula said. "We’re no longer importing maize or sugar, and soon, we’ll stop importing rice. Instead, we’ll start exporting."On education, Wetang’ula noted the recruitment of 76,000 teachers within two years, calling it “the biggest investment in the sector since independence.”
Regionally, he highlighted Kenya’s role in promoting peace, including integrating Somalia into the East African Community and supporting stability in South Sudan.
"These are milestones we must uphold. Our leadership in the region is steadfast and should be recognized globally," he emphasized.In a rare bipartisan gesture, Wetang’ula rallied support for Raila Odinga’s bid for the East African Union Commission chairmanship.
“We have about a week to go before the elections on February 14. We must ensure we reach the right ears, including American allies, to support his candidature,” he stated.
Kenya’s Ambassador to the U.S., David Kerich, echoed Wetang’ula’s sentiments, emphasizing the diaspora’s growing economic impact.
"Last year, remittances from Kenyans in the U.S. stood at $4.19 billion. This year, we’ve already crossed $4.2 billion, and the numbers keep climbing," Kerich said. "Our diaspora is resilient, contributing across sectors like tech, health, academia, and business."Kerich noted that Kenyan students in the U.S. are a critical link between the two countries, often securing employment after graduation and sending money back home.
“Every dollar they earn strengthens our economy,” he added.
The ambassador also highlighted ongoing diplomatic efforts to align with the current U.S. administration, building on momentum from President Ruto’s state visit last year.
"We have pending agreements like the Strategic Trade and Investment Partnership (STIP), which we hope to finalize soon. Whether it’s STIP or an FTA, we’re confident of significant achievements," Kerich noted.Kerich appealed for more support from the National Assembly to improve consular services, particularly in reaching Kenyans spread across the vast U.S. territory.
“Providing services to Kenyans across all states is expensive. Mobile consular services help, but they require significant resources,” he explained. “We hope the Speaker and Parliament will support our requests for more funding to better serve our people.”
Deputy Chief of Mission Christopher Kirigua outlined plans to strengthen diaspora engagement and attract U.S. investments to Kenya.
“Our goal is to double diaspora remittances by connecting second-generation Kenyans with their heritage through investments, cultural activities, and education,” Kirigua said.
He also emphasized the need to simplify Kenya’s legal frameworks for foreign investors.
"Many U.S. investors are eager to invest in Kenya but struggle to understand our legal systems. Our role is to bridge that gap and ensure a smooth investment process," Kirigua explained.He reaffirmed the embassy’s commitment to working closely with the National Assembly to strengthen U.S.-Kenya relations.
“We look forward to deeper collaboration to ensure Kenya maximizes its potential on the global stage,” he said.