Kenya is advocating for the development of a framework that enables the portability of social benefits, including health and social security benefits, for people of African descent living in the diaspora.
Speaking at the fourth session of the United Nations Permanent Forum on People of African Descent (PFPAD), Ambassador Hellen Gichuhi, Secretary for Diaspora Welfare and Partnerships at @diaspora_ke, highlighted concerns among diaspora members who wish to return to their countries of origin but are hesitant due to the potential loss of social benefits.
“The Durban Declaration is a pivotal milestone in human rights. This Forum is tasked with addressing barriers that hinder the full realization and enjoyment of all human rights and freedoms. It is a fundamental right for people of African descent to return home without losing their social benefits,” said Ambassador Gichuhi.
Africa and People of African Descent: United for Reparatory Justice in the Age of Artificial Intelligence, with the sub-theme focusing on Policy Making and Systemic Racism: A Human Rights-Based Approach.
Representing Kenya, Amb. Gichuhi also called for greater attention to mental health and psychosocial wellness, emphasizing the need for concerted efforts to address inter-generational trauma among the people of African descent, including diaspora
She urged the forum to establish mechanisms to provide free and accessible mental health and psychosocial services as a fundamental human right.
Prior to the session, Amb. Gichuhi, accompanied by Ms. Anne Kimani(FSO), met with Ambassador Martin Kimani, the newly-appointed Chair of the UN Permanent Forum on People of African Descent (PFPAD), who succeeded H.E Dr. June Soomer. She also engaged with Ms. Angela Naa Afoley Odai, Head of the Diaspora Division at the African Union’s Citizens and Diaspora Organizations Directorate (CIDO). #PFPAD2025
