The Kenyan government has created the Department for Diaspora Affairs in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to handle the difficulties that Kenyans face while studying or working overseas.
This decision was made by President William Ruto, who recognizes the crucial role played by the Kenyan Diaspora community in the country’s economy and social fabric.
The timing of this decision is important, as there has been an increase in the number of cases of assault and killing of Kenyans in other countries.
Foreign Affairs Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua has advised Kenyans living abroad to comply with the laws of the countries they are residing in or return home.
Mutua stressed that most instances of Kenyans suffering overseas result from personal behavior, and urged individuals to understand why some Kenyans are in a bad state.
He also cautioned Kenyans who encounter legal issues abroad not to attempt to change or break the law but to return home.
Reports have emerged of Kenyans working in the Diaspora, particularly in the Gulf, being subject to long working hours, physical and sexual violence, and even death at the hands of their employers.
Mutua’s remarks come as the number of such cases has risen.
The establishment of the Department for Diaspora Affairs in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is expected to address the problems encountered by Kenyans studying or working overseas.
Mutua’s advice to Kenyans to follow the laws of the countries they are residing in is vital in avoiding additional cases of assault and killing of Kenyans in other countries.
