Nairobi, September 21- President William Ruto on Sunday met Kenyans living in the United States in New York, where he witnessed the signing of a Joint Declaration of Intent involving the Kenyan Government, the United Nations and Equity Group Holdings.
The meeting also saw the launch of the Kenya Diaspora Impact Platform, a digital initiative by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the State Department for Diaspora Affairs aimed at connecting Kenyans living abroad with investment and development opportunities in the country.
The declaration was signed by Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi on behalf of the government, Equity Group Holdings CEO James Mwangi representing the private sector, and UN Resident Coordinator in Kenya Garry Conille representing the diaspora.
Speaking during the event, Ruto said the Kenyan diaspora contributes to the country through remittances, investment, skills, innovation and international networks. He said the new platform would seek to facilitate diaspora participation in community projects, financing of micro, small and medium enterprises, business creation and skills transfer.
The President also said the platform would provide information on investment opportunities in sectors including housing, healthcare and agriculture.
Ruto, however, stressed the need for reliable information and transparency, saying trust would be central to the implementation of the initiative.
The launch comes as the President is in New York for the 81st United Nations General Assembly, where Kenya is participating in international discussions and engagements.
