About Diaspora Support Services For Kenyans

By Essie Osborn


Kenya has been known to have hardworking citizens whose efforts have been noticed by international community. This has brought about increased diaspora support services for Kenyans to enable them cover shortages. Even though still struggling with poverty and diseases, a lot has been done and change has been observed.

A diaspora is a group of people sharing a common homeland, origin and culture in a foreign country. These are usually the results of an exodus that may have reasons varying from forcible expulsion to opportunities of employment. A desire to recreate the experiences of home is seen in these communities and hence the fertile market for Diaspora support services exists.

The demographic composition of a community can be incredibly diverse and hence would require different activities as can be reflected in the variety of institutions that exist to meet the various demands. However the activities can be broadly classified into three categories; Professional Organizations, Business/Community Development and Religious endeavors. These three are most important to those living abroad, as most of the Kenyans abroad are either professionals or business owners and their families.

These individuals are Professionals and business owners are in many cases also accompanied by their families especially if they are planning to settle or after they have settled. Support groups help such families meet people who are going through the same thing and can be the source of much needed empathy making the transition easier.

Kids can find friends who speak the same language and socialize better, mothers can find other mothers facing the same challenges of managing a household in a different country and the elderly can find solace in the companionship of similarly displaced. Also of immense value are the religious activities that serve to help one reconnect with their religion.

Another important service that merits discussion is the Banking activities, as seen in many cases, only an individual goes to work abroad leaving behind their families. This apart from the obvious pain that it causes the human psyche also raises the practical problem of sending money back home. And as is the case with all matters of money, so is this service rife with fraudulence and dishonesty making a choice difficult.

These immigrants live in different areas with different needs, and so, people experiencing the same issues should be able to get assistance for their specific locality. There are a lot of resources in the internet that can be checked and right ones contacted. Various organizations have websites and they can be reached for assistance with funds or advice.

Living and working abroad is no doubt a daunting and challenging task but it can be made into a delightful and informative experience with the right group of people around and that is why these services should be contacted without hesitancy, for yourself and for others because even if you might not need help you may help someone.




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