The government has announced plans to fast-track applications for dual citizenship for Kenyans who were required to renounce their citizenship before the 2010 Constitution came into effect.
Immigration Principal Secretary Julius Bitok explained that the new policy is aimed at enabling Kenyans to fully utilize constitutional provisions that recognize dual nationality, while also strengthening ties between the diaspora and the homeland.
“By fast-tracking dual citizenship applications, we are enabling Kenyans abroad to reclaim their identity and contribute to the economic development of our nation,” Bitok stated.
The move is expected to encourage Kenyans living abroad, who have since acquired other nationalities, to invest more in their country of origin.
Bitok made the remarks during the International Migrants Day walk at the COMESA grounds at the Kenyatta International Conference Centre, an event organized by the National Coordination Mechanisms on Migration and the International Office on Migration.
The event highlights the benefits of migration and cross-border movement.
The PS emphasized the government’s focus on facilitating the migration of Kenyans seeking job opportunities abroad, while also attracting valuable expertise and investment back to Kenya.
“We are also keen on attracting high-net-worth visitors and investors to Kenya through the introduction of the Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) system, which will simplify travel and enhance tourism and business opportunities,” he added.
It is estimated that around three million Kenyans are currently living abroad, with a large proportion holding dual citizenship.
However, many had to renounce their Kenyan citizenship before 2010 as a condition for acquiring other nationalities.
Under Section 16 of the Kenya Constitution, dual nationality is now permitted.
Kenyans wishing to reclaim their citizenship can apply online via eCitizen and the Directorate of Immigration website.
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