WASHINGTON DC — Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka on Tuesday held a closed-door engagement with a section of Kenyans living in the United States, using the forum to discuss economic pressures at home, diaspora investment, and the safety of Kenyan citizens working abroad.
Speaking after a dinner meeting in Washington DC, the former Vice President said discussions centred on the growing financial burden borne by Kenyans in the diaspora, many of whom continue to support families and communities back home amid rising taxation, a difficult economic climate, and limited opportunities for young people in Kenya.
He described the diaspora as a “critical stabilising force” for many households, noting that remittances have become a lifeline for families struggling with the cost of living.
The meeting also addressed investment opportunities, with Kalonzo saying Kenyans abroad expressed strong interest in investing in enterprise, property, innovation and long-term development.
However, he noted that participants raised concerns about policy uncertainty, weak investor protection and bureaucratic barriers that undermine confidence.
“They want clear, predictable policies that safeguard their investments and inspire trust in national systems,” Kalonzo said.
This evening in Washington DC, I held a candid and deeply engaging dinner with Kenyans in the diaspora.Our conversations reflected a shared reality: even as they build new lives abroad, many Kenyans continue to carry the growing weight of supporting families and communities
Concerns over the safety and welfare of Kenyans working abroad featured prominently in the discussions.
Musyoka cited cases of Kenyans who have died or suffered harm after travelling overseas in search of employment, including those caught up in the Russia–Ukraine war.
He also referenced a New York Times investigation published last year that scrutinised Kenya’s labour export programmes, raising questions about oversight, worker protection and accountability within labour migration systems.
According to Kalonzo, these revelations have deepened anxiety within the diaspora over the treatment and protection of Kenyan workers abroad, prompting calls for stronger safeguards and transparency.
Positioning himself as part of what he described as an “alternative government in waiting,” Kalonzo said his camp was committed to policies that prioritise dignity, safety and economic empowerment for Kenyans at home and abroad.
“Kenyans in the diaspora are not distant observers,” he said. “They are an integral part of our nation’s present and future.”
The Washington engagement was attended by Deputy Minority Leader of the National Assembly and Kathiani MP Robert Mbui, Makueni Senator Dan Maanzo, and Machakos County MCA Helen Ndeti.
