Gen Z Turnout Shines at Massachusetts Kenya Consular Event: Diaspora Engagement Takes Center Stage
Lowell, MA, June 29, 2025 — The Kenyan community in Massachusetts witnessed an inspiring show of unity and civic engagement as hundreds of Kenyans—particularly from Generation Z (ages 12–29, born in the USA)—attended the recent Mobile Consular Services event organized by the Embassy of the Republic of Kenya in Washington, D.C. The three-day event, held from June 26th to 28th in Lowell, Massachusetts, highlighted the growing influence and involvement of young Kenyan-Americans in diaspora affairs.
A Record Gen Z Turnout
The event saw a remarkable turnout from Gen Z, reflecting the demographic’s increasing interest in maintaining strong ties with their Kenyan heritage and identity. Many young attendees took the opportunity to process essential documents such as Kenyan passports, national IDs, birth certificates, and emergency travel documents. This surge in participation underscores the importance of accessible consular services for the younger generation, many of whom are navigating dual identities and seeking to strengthen their connection to Kenya.
Strategic Engagement with the Diaspora
H.E. Ambassador David Kerich, who led the consular mission, engaged directly with community members, emphasizing the critical role of the Kenyan diaspora in national development. “The Kenyan Diaspora remains a critical pillar for economic development and prosperity of our nation,” he remarked during his address. The Ambassador encouraged investment in strategic sectors back home—such as technology, education, real estate, and agribusiness—urging the diaspora to leverage their skills and resources for Kenya’s growth.
Efficient Service Delivery and Community Support
Over the course of the event, hundreds of applications were processed, including:
• Kenyan Passports: Hundreds issued and renewed
• Kenyan National IDs: Processed for both new applicants and renewals
• Birth Certificates and Emergency Travel Documents: Issued on-site for urgent needs
The event’s success was made possible by the dedication of over 50 diaspora volunteers, who provided professional expertise and logistical support. Each volunteer was honored with a special hardcopy Certificate of Appreciation, personally signed by Ambassador Kerich, recognizing their invaluable contribution and exceptional mobilization efforts.
Expanding Access: New Models for Consular Services
In response to the evolving needs of the diaspora, the Embassy is actively soliciting ideas to better reach and serve Kenyans across the United States. One innovative approach under consideration is the establishment of consular offices in various states, potentially managed by Kenyan professionals or even qualified foreign nationals. This model draws inspiration from notable figures such as the late Chris Kirubi, who served as Honorary Consul General of Ghana in Kenya from 2000 to 2008. In this role, he represented Ghana’s interests in Kenya and worked to strengthen diplomatic and economic relations between the two countries. Kirubi was also a Board Member of Ghana’s Investors’ Advisory Council, further deepening his involvement with Ghana’s government and business community. For his contributions, he was awarded Ghana’s Grand Medal, recognizing his efforts in fostering Ghana-Kenya relations.
Honorary consulates are a common diplomatic practice, allowing countries to extend their reach in regions without full embassies or consulates. These offices, often led by prominent local individuals or business leaders, facilitate trade, cultural exchange, and provide limited consular assistance. Kenya’s consideration of this model reflects a forward-thinking approach to diaspora engagement, leveraging local expertise and networks to better serve its citizens abroad.
Recent Mobile Consular Events
Building on the success in Massachusetts, the Embassy continued its outreach with another Mobile Consular Service event, which took place in Huntsville, Alabama, on June 20th and 21st, 2025. These initiatives are part of a broader strategy to decentralize consular services, making them more accessible to Kenyans across the vast U.S. diaspora.
About the Embassy’s Mobile Consular Services
The Embassy of the Republic of Kenya in Washington, D.C., regularly organizes Mobile Consular Service events to bring essential government services closer to Kenyans living far from the capital. Services include passport and ID processing, birth and death registration, and emergency travel documentation. The Embassy also provides information on investment opportunities and facilitates dialogue between the diaspora and the Kenyan government.
Special Acknowledgment and Gratitude
The main coordinator and convenor of the event was Pastor Nancy Tilahun of Faith Reform Ministry. The event took place at 225 Stedman Street, Lowell, MA 01851.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the event organizers for their dedication, generosity, and expertise. Thank you for offering your time, equipment, and space, and for your unwavering commitment to making this consular event a resounding success. We also deeply appreciate everyone who braved the rain to attend and contribute to the vibrant atmosphere.
A special note of thanks goes to our Embassy staff and to our esteemed ambassador, H.E. Amb. David Kerich, for gracing the occasion with his presence. We are truly honored that he spent meaningful and constructive time engaging with pastors, community leaders, and students. His participation greatly enriched the event and inspired all in attendance.
Together, we have demonstrated the strength and unity of our community. We look forward to many more successful gatherings in the future. Thank you once again to everyone involved for making this event memorable.
For more information on upcoming events and services, visit:
https://kenyaembassydc.org/epassport/
