JANUARY 15, 2025(NAIROBI)–The State Department for Diaspora Affairs (SDDA) has detailed a framework for enhancing bilateral cooperation on safe, orderly, and mutually beneficial migration between Kenya and Canada.
Amb. Isaiya Kabira, Secretary for Diaspora Investments, Skills and Entrepreneurship, representing Diaspora Affairs Principal Secretary, Ms. Roseline K. Njogu, attended the Canada-Kenya engagement fireside chat held today at the University of Nairobi.
Amb. Kabira also outlined proactive measures to protect Kenyan citizens traveling for the FIFA World Cup 2026 to be held jointly by the Canada, Mexico and the United States of America (USA).
Under the theme “Partnerships for safe and orderly migration,” Ambassador Kabira emphasized that Kenya views its migration relationship with Canada as positive, strategic, and anchored on shared values of legality, protection of migrant rights, and mutual benefit.”
In response to questions on practical steps during a panel discussion, Amb. Kabira outlined a robust action plan centered on Government collaboration and community empowerment including the dedicated Labour Task force.
The task force brings together the SDDA, the Canadian High Commission, and key Kenyan agencies for Labour, Immigration, and Criminal Investigations.
He also highlighted a key initiative by Government which is the community-level engagement program that brings accurate migration information directly to Kenyan youth and job-seekers, teaching them how to identify legitimate opportunities and avoid exploitation.
The Ambassador also called for deepened collaboration on skills recognition in priority sectors like healthcare and ICT, alongside ensuring pre-departure orientation and post-arrival support for migrants to improve integration and protection.
Addressing the threat of irregular migration, Ambassador Kabira stated that protecting Kenyans from fraudulent recruitment is a top priority. He detailed SDDA’s nationwide sensitization campaigns that empower citizens with knowledge to verify job offers and avoid illegal fees.
With a significant influx of Kenyan spectators expected in Canada for the World Cup, the Ambassador outlined a full spectrum of consular and support measures.
Ambassador Kabira reinforced that Kenya seeks to deepen cooperation with Canada to ensure its relations remain orderly, transparent, and mutually beneficial, contributing to economic growth and stronger diplomatic ties.
The detailed roadmap presented underscores Kenya’s proactive and institutionalized approach to managing modern migration challenges and leveraging global events for positive citizen engagement.
The panelists included His Excellency Joshua Tabah-High Commissioner of Canada to Kenya, Ms. Marie-Pier Côté-Area Director Sub-Saharan Africa-IRCC, Dr. Harpreet S. Kochar-Deputy Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, Mr. Shadrack Mwadime-Principal Secretary(Labour and Skills Development) and Mr. Sharif Faisal-Deputy Chief of Mission of IOM Kenya.
Amb. Kabira was accompanied by Ms. Irene Karari, Director and in-charge of the Skills and Expertise Division.