KANSAS CITY, Missouri — Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua has praised Kenyans living in the United States for what he described as their resilience and continued commitment to maintaining ties with Kenya.
Gachagua made the remarks after arriving in Kansas City, Missouri, the latest stop on his ongoing tour of the United States, where he is scheduled to engage members of the Kenyan diaspora.
He was accompanied by his spouse, Rev. Dorcas Rigathi.
Gachagua Praises Diaspora Resilience
In a message after his arrival, Gachagua said the reception he had received from Kenyans during his US tour had encouraged him.
He said Kenyans living abroad had demonstrated a strong determination to remain connected to their country despite living thousands of kilometres from home.
“The love and warmth I have received since beginning this tour are truly immeasurable,” Gachagua said.
He added that the commitment of Kenyans abroad had inspired him.
“I am inspired by the courage and unwavering commitment of Kenyans to keep the fire burning, no matter where they are in the world,” he said.
Kansas City Becomes Latest Tour Stop
Kansas City is the third city visited by Gachagua during his current US tour, according to reports.
His engagements have included meetings with Kenyan communities and discussions on the diaspora’s relationship with Kenya.
Gachagua has previously said his overseas engagements are intended to strengthen connections with Kenyans living abroad and provide opportunities to discuss their role in Kenya’s future.
The Kansas City visit adds to a series of diaspora engagements as Gachagua continues his US tour.
Diaspora Maintains Strong Economic Links
Kenyans living abroad remain an important source of financial support for households and communities in Kenya.
Central Bank of Kenya data shows that diaspora remittances remained substantial in 2026. In the 12 months to June 2026, remittance inflows stood at $4.96 billion, although this was 2.4 per cent lower than the $5.084 billion recorded in the preceding 12-month period.
The CBK’s 2025 Remittances Household Survey also found that Kenyan households received Sh931.8 billion in remittances between June 2024 and May 2025. The United States was the largest source, accounting for 43.5 per cent of total inflows captured in the survey.
Gachagua Highlights Connection to Kenya
Gachagua said the reception from Kenyans in the US reflected their continued attachment to Kenya despite living overseas.
His remarks focused on the role of the diaspora in maintaining social and economic connections with communities back home.
The former deputy president’s US tour comes as Kenyan political figures increasingly engage diaspora communities, which have links to the country through family, business, professional networks and remittances.
US Tour Continues
Gachagua is expected to continue meeting Kenyans in different parts of the United States during the ongoing tour.
His Kansas City engagements are expected to provide another platform for discussions with diaspora groups about their relationship with Kenya and their contribution to the country’s social and economic development.
The DCP leader’s remarks also come against the backdrop of continued debate in Kenya over how the country can strengthen engagement with its citizens living abroad.
The CBK has identified diaspora remittances as an important contributor to Kenya’s economic growth and development.
