November 19- At least 30,000 Kenyans living in the United States are on high alert following President-elect Donald Trump’s confirmation on Monday, November 18, that he plans to declare a national emergency to fulfill his campaign promise of mass deportations targeting irregular migrants.
Trump, known for his frequent activity on social media, amplified the message through a repost from his ally Tom Fitton, head of the conservative group Judicial Watch. In his November 8 post, Fitton claimed the incoming administration was prepared to enact emergency measures and deploy military assets to implement a large-scale deportation program.
Immigration Crackdown Looms
To spearhead his efforts to curb undocumented immigration, Trump has appointed staunch immigration hardliners to key roles in his administration. South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem has been nominated for Homeland Security secretary, pending Senate approval.
Immigration was a cornerstone of Trump’s campaign, with promises to address the surge in migrants entering the US during the Biden-Harris administration. His renewed focus poses a direct threat to Kenyans living in the country without proper documentation.
Data from the 2020 US Census Bureau reveals that at least 30,000 Kenyans are undocumented, though this figure is likely higher in 2024. The US hosts the largest Kenyan diaspora globally, with approximately 157,000 Kenyans residing there, followed by 139,000 in the United Kingdom, according to the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs. Among African countries, Kenya ranks fifth as a source of migrants to the US, with Nigeria leading the list.
Impact on Kenyan Migrants
Trump’s policies threaten to disrupt the lives of many undocumented Kenyans, many of whom have built stable lives in the US. Beyond deportation fears, there are growing concerns about the future of the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program, which allows international students to gain work experience in their fields for up to three years after graduation.
During his previous presidency, Trump’s administration considered limiting OPT, particularly the 24-month extension for STEM graduates. If these restrictions are revisited, they could significantly impact Kenyan students and other international graduates seeking to establish careers in the US.
Uncertain Future
As Trump prepares to assume office, undocumented Kenyans in the US face an uncertain and precarious future. With a renewed focus on immigration enforcement and potential policy changes, the community is bracing for challenges that could alter their lives dramatically.
