PS Bitok: State to hasten processing of dual citizenship requests for Kenyan diaspora
By Maureen Kinyanjui |
The PS noted that the policy aims to encourage those who migrated abroad and acquired other nationalities to invest more in Kenya.
The government has announced plans to fast-track the processing of dual citizenship applications for Kenyans who renounced their nationality before the 2010 Constitution was enacted.
Immigration Principal Secretary Julius Bitok on Friday said the initiative is part of efforts to strengthen ties between Kenyans in the diaspora and their homeland while leveraging their contributions to the country’s economic growth.
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"By fast-tracking dual citizenship applications, we are enabling Kenyans abroad to reclaim their identity and contribute to the economic development of our nation," he said.
The PS noted that the policy aims to encourage those who migrated abroad and acquired other nationalities to invest more in Kenya.
This move, according to the PS, aligns with constitutional provisions under Section 16 of the Kenyan Constitution (2010), which recognises dual nationality.
Bitok announced this at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre during the flagging off of this year's International Migrants Day walk.
The event, organised by the National Coordination Mechanisms on Migration and the International Organisation for Migration, celebrated the benefits of migration and cross-border movement.
The PS also stated that the government is keen on promoting the migration of Kenyans seeking job opportunities abroad while attracting foreign expertise and investments to the country.
Bitok said the introduction of the Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) system simplifies travel and boosts tourism and business opportunities.
"We are also keen on attracting high-net-worth visitors and investors to Kenya through the eTA system, which will enhance tourism and business opportunities," he said.
An estimated three million Kenyans currently reside in the diaspora, with many enjoying dual citizenship.
However, a significant number were forced to renounce their Kenyan nationality to qualify for other nationalities before 2010.
Kenyans wishing to reclaim their citizenship can now submit their applications online through the eCitizen platform or the Directorate of Immigration’s website.
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