Spotlight on the young and skilled: Kenyan diaspora members in the south

Abstract

This study sought to explore the various ways through which the Government of Kenya can involve its diasporas in human development. Until recently, migration literature had concentrated on migration interactions between the developed and the developing countries, yet most of the migrants within the developing countries tend to migrate to other developing countries. This research contributes to this under researched literature, by examining the Kenyan case on how migrants within developing countries, especially within the Africa, Caribbean and the Pacific (ACP) countries, can be involved in national development in Kenya. The study used a novel approach where data was collected using online interviews of migrants abroad, as well as in-depth interviews of migrants, embassy officials and diaspora associations in developing countries. The study revealed that most of the migrants tend to be young and skilled workers. They also tend to be mainly employed in professions that use their skills. They have dependants at home and frequently send remittances to support them. In addition, migrants would like to be involved in national development mainly through skills transfer in sectors such as education, health care provision, infrastructure development and childcare. Most of them prefer taking part in programmes that do not exceed one year. However, financial constraints, political and social factors in Kenya could discourage them from active participation. The study also discusses the policy implications of these issues.