PS Njogu, Scholar Discuss Stronger Collaboration on Diaspora Policy

The Principal Secretary for Diaspora Affairs, Roseline Njogu, has held a strategic meeting with academic scholar Sylvia Kang’ara to explore ways of strengthening collaboration between academia and government in addressing emerging issues affecting Kenyans living abroad.

The meeting focused on how research and scholarly expertise can support the development of innovative strategies for diaspora engagement and management. The discussions emphasized the importance of research-driven policy formulation and the role academic institutions can play in providing evidence-based solutions to evolving global migration trends.

Speaking during the engagement, Njogu underscored the need for stronger partnerships between policymakers and scholars to ensure that diaspora policies are informed by reliable data, research and global best practices.

She noted that the Kenyan diaspora remains a key pillar of the country’s socio-economic development through remittances, investments, knowledge transfer and international networks.

“Collaboration between scholars and policymakers is essential in developing responsive and forward-looking frameworks that effectively address the evolving needs of Kenyans abroad,” Njogu said.

The discussions also explored opportunities for joint research, policy development and capacity-building initiatives aimed at strengthening Kenya’s diaspora governance systems.

Njogu reaffirmed the government’s commitment to engaging experts and institutions in developing policies that protect the interests of Kenyans abroad while maximizing the diaspora’s contribution to national development.

Kang’ara welcomed the partnership, noting that integrating academic insights into policy-making processes would help ensure diaspora initiatives remain relevant and responsive to changing global dynamics.

The engagement forms part of ongoing efforts by the State Department for Diaspora Affairs to foster partnerships that promote innovative, inclusive and sustainable diaspora management strategies.

The meeting signals growing cooperation between government and academia as Kenya continues to strengthen engagement with its diaspora community and position it as a key partner in the country’s development agenda.