UK Deputy High Commissioner Joakim Kamere on Wednesday, May 3, announced measures the government had put in place to help Kenyans working abroad make informed investment decisions and avoid being conned by their relatives.
According to the diplomat, Kenyans should seek the expertise of lawyers or reach out to the state to pair them with competent investment companies to avoid being duped, especially by family members.
The ambassador highlighted cases where a number of Kenyans often send money for the construction of a house but are shocked years later to find no project was undertaken, or one they envisioned was not delivered.
To avert the crisis, Kamere added that the government was willing to help them invest back in Kenya.
"Now, we have credible companies and organisations you can put your money into and you are guaranteed that what you want is what you will get.
"Kenya is ready for business, especially in real estate and creating affordable housing. The Kenyan High Commission is ready and for those who are ready to invest, we will connect you with companies that will give you credible investment," Kamere explained.
The deputy High Commissioner was reacting to complaints from Kenyans living abroad about how family members dubbed them millions.
The development was a boost for Kenyans in the diaspora in line with Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua's April announcement in Botswana that the government was working to scrap double taxation on the investments of Kenyans living abroad.
The move aimed at encouraging them to continue investing in Kenya even while living abroad.
"One of the issues picked was double taxation in investment. I will take this to the Cabinet for further deliberations and a decision, among other issues," Gachagua stated.
Furthermore, Gachagua lauded Kenyans living in Botswana and others in other foreign countries for venturing into unknown businesses and succeeding.
"The Ruto administration will address the challenges faced by Kenyans abroad as requested. I encourage you to invest at home with an eye on retirement," he added.
According to data from the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) between January and March, Kenyans in the diaspora sent home approximately Ksh138.5 million (USD, 1,015,545).
