By G, KNA
An estimated one trillion shillings remitted yearly by Kenyans in the diaspora could grow Kenya’s economy by bigger margins if invested well in critical sectors of the economy.
Zaccheaus Rop, a Kenya’s US-based doctor has revealed that a formula should be designed to allow yearly foreign remittances to strengthen Kenyan urban infrastructural development across the country.
Rop admitted that Kenyans in diaspora play a crucial role in the Kenyan economy through their yearly remittances which hit one trillion last year.
“As a country we need to have a serious discussion with Kenyans living in diaspora on how best they can use their remittances in improving rural towns in across the country,” Rop said while issuing cheques to Grade 10 through his Hokil Foundation initiative at St. Francis Catholic Church in Mosoriot town.
Rop singled out cases where money remitted from abroad is directed to unproductive ventures like building homes in rural Kenya yet the markets and village centers do not have sufficient building infrastructures for their growth.
He said formal engagement should be structured so that remittances are directed well to develop the upcoming urban centers across the country.
The Hokil Foundation founder however tasked the National and County Governments to reign against fictitious foreign registration agents who have conned unsuspecting Kenyans millions of shillings.
Rop called on the government to strictly issue guidelines and regulations to government agents who are seeking to export Kenyan labour or linking them with foreign study colleges.
He regretted that some Kenyans are tricked to sell the only land or even sell vital property for them to secure a ticket for foreign job but end up languishing in poverty in the streets foreign cities.
The philanthropist has secured education scholarships for more than 300 poor bright students through his Hokil Foundation in Nandi County for the last four years.
According to him, his foundation receives close to 5000 applicants every year in need of sponsorship but his foundation can only accommodate 100 students.
“I call upon other well-wishers to help sponsor bright and poor students in Nandi and the environment since it is the only sure way of eliminating poverty,” he said.
