Policy Updates Strategies

SDDA, IEBC HOLD CONSULTATIVE MEETING TO DISCUSS KENYAN DIASPORA ELECTORAL AGENDA

Share: Facebook | Twitter | Whatsapp | Linkedin Visits: 206

---

Friday, September 19, 2025(NAIROBI)__Diaspora Affairs Principal Secretary, Ms. Roseline K. Njogu, CBS, met with the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), led by its Vice Chairperson, Ms. Fahima Abdallah.

The central objective of the consultative meeting was to solidify a partnership aimed at significantly increasing the involvement of the Kenyan diaspora in the nation's electoral activities.

Ms. Njogu reaffirmed the State Department for Diaspora Affairs'(SDDA) core mission to work with stakeholders in enabling Kenyans living overseas to take part in the country's democratic processes.

She highlighted the progress made since the 2010 Constitution, noting that the 2022 General Elections established polling stations in 12 countries that allowed Kenyans to vote.

The dialogue centered on key strategies, including pursuing necessary legislative reforms, intensifying voter education and registration drives, and increasing the number of voting centers beyond the current embassy locations.

A consensus was reached on the necessity of early and meticulous preparation to guarantee the successful execution of these plans for upcoming elections.

It was strongly emphasized that a substantial rise in diaspora voter registration numbers is essential to warrant the creation of more polling stations abroad.

The IEBC delegation recognized the importance of the Kenyan diaspora, noting its role as the primary source of the nation's foreign remittances. The Commission reiterated its dedication to partnering with SDDA to tackle obstacles faced by Kenyans in the Diaspora, ensuring their voices are heard and their interests are represented in Kenya's democratic processes.

In attendance were IEBC Commissioners Prof. Francis Aduol, Dr. Alutalala Mukhwana, Mr. Hassan Noor Hassan, Ms. MaryKaren Sorobit, alongside the Commission Secretary and CEO, Mr. Marjan Hussein Marjan. The State Department for Diaspora Affairs was also represented by Amb. Hellen Gichuhi, Secretary for Diaspora Welfare and Partnerships; Ms. Emma Gicheha, Director and in-charge of the Welfare and Rights Division; and Mr. Edwin Limo, Director in the Liaison and Partnerships Division, among other officials.