Diaspora Diplomacy Strategies and Remittance Flows: Evidence from Kenyan Diaspora in Australia
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.53819/81018102t4355Abstract
The Central Bank of Kenya recognizes the significance of remittances as an economic lifeline, yet the observed irregularities hint at prevailing issues within the diaspora that may impact their ability to contribute effectively to the nation's welfare. Existing research on diaspora contributions has largely focused on traditional migration destinations such as the US, UK, and Gulf countries, creating a contextual gap regarding the Kenyan diaspora in Australia, whose remittance behavior remains under-explored. The purpose of the study was to assess the impact of diaspora diplomacy strategies on remittance flows from Australia. A descriptive survey design and a positivist paradigm were employed to collect empirical data from diaspora members. The target population comprised 22,446 individuals, including officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kenya Mission in Australia, diaspora associations, and Kenyan diaspora residents in Australia. A total sample of 484 respondents was selected using random, census, purposive, and stratified sampling techniques. Data was collected using structured questionnaires distributed via digital platforms and interview guide. Quantitative data was analyzed using SPSS, where descriptive statistics and linear regression were conducted to test the relationships between the study variables. The findings revealed that diaspora diplomacy strategies explained 71.2% of the variation in remittance flows (R² = 0.712, Adjusted R² = 0.706), with the regression model showing statistical significance (F = 432.764, p = 0.000). The study concludes that diaspora diplomacy plays an important role in promoting remittance flows from Kenyans in Australia but is hindered by structural and institutional limitations. The study thus recommends the establishment of a Diaspora Investment Facilitation Office (DIFO) under the Kenya Investment Authority (KenInvest), with liaison officers in key global hubs including Australia.
Keywords: Diaspora Diplomacy Strategies, Remittance Flows, Economic Development, Consular Services, Kenyan Diaspora in Australia
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