Ruto Pledges Lower Remittance Costs to Boost Diaspora Contributions
President William Ruto has urged Kenyans living abroad to take a more active role in advancing the country’s economic transformation.
Speaking in Doha during the UN Second World Summit for Social Development, President Ruto described the diaspora as a key force in Kenya’s efforts to achieve lasting prosperity. Addressing Kenyans in Qatar, he expressed concern that the country’s economic progress has not matched its potential.
“It disturbs me that Kenya can be a great nation, but we are not moving,” he said.
His comments followed a meeting with Qatar’s Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, who commended Kenyan workers for their contribution to Qatar’s economy. Ruto urged expatriates to extend the same commitment to Kenya, asking, “Who says you good people cannot contribute to our economy?”
The President’s appeal comes as remittances from Kenyans abroad reached a record $5 billion (KSh650 billion) last year. These funds have become a major pillar of national development, surpassing earnings from traditional sectors such as tourism and tea exports.
To increase the impact of these transfers, Ruto said his administration aims to lower remittance costs, which currently range between five and seven percent. He announced that the Central Bank of Kenya would work with the International Association of Money Transfer Networks to create more affordable transfer systems.
Beyond remittances, President Ruto outlined broader reforms intended to strengthen Kenya’s economy. He highlighted ongoing changes in agriculture, noting that his government has focused on subsidising production rather than consumption.
This approach, he said, is beginning to deliver results across various sectors. Ruto also acknowledged the contributions of previous leaders, including former President Uhuru Kenyatta and the late Prime Minister Raila Odinga, saying his administration seeks to continue their vision of structural transformation.
During the event, Ruto praised the large Kenyan community in Qatar for supporting families back home and recognised the efforts of the State Department for Diaspora Affairs. Led by Principal Secretary Rosline Njogu, the department has expanded its outreach to strengthen engagement with Kenyans abroad.
