In a remarkable display of solidarity, Kenyan expatriates have significantly boosted financial support to their families, contributing a substantial $355.6 million (Sh53.9 billion) in October.
This surpasses the previous month's figure of $340.4 million (Sh51.6 billion), illustrating a steadfast commitment to sustaining their home country's economic well-being.
According to the Central Bank of Kenya's (CBK) latest weekly bulletin, covering the period up to November 17, remittances for the twelve months concluding in October 2023 amounted to $4,165 million (Sh631.2 billion).
This marks a notable 4.2 per cent increase compared to the same period in 2022, where remittances totalled $3,996 million (Sh605.6 billion).
Notably, the United States remains the primary source of remittances, contributing 54 per cent in October 2023.
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These remittances serve a dual purpose by providing essential support to families and friends while simultaneously serving as a critical source of foreign exchange (forex).
The funds play a pivotal role in financing imports, settling debts, fortifying reserves, and reducing the country's trade deficit.
The October remittance figure stands as the second-highest for the year, with July witnessing a record-breaking amount of $378.1 million (Sh57.3 billion).
This consistent flow of financial support underscores the integral role that diaspora remittances play in bolstering the Kenyan economy.
A significant driver behind this trend is the growing inclination of Kenyans to seek employment and educational opportunities abroad.
The pursuit of 'greener pastures' has become a predominant factor motivating individuals to explore prospects beyond the nation's borders.
Anticipating this surge, the Western Union's Global Money Transfer Index had predicted an upswing in remittances.
This forecast is partly attributed to the depreciation of the Kenyan shilling, surpassing the Sh150 mark against the US dollar.
While the review period indicates the relative stability of the Kenyan Shilling against major international and regional currencies, trading at Sh152.11 per US dollar, the weakened shilling has proven advantageous for Kenyans in the diaspora.
Leveraging the purchasing power of the US dollar and other major currencies, they maximize benefits when sending money back home.
Despite challenges faced by Kenya's financial markets, including foreign exchange troubles linked to dollar shortages and a decline in forex reserves, the CBK reports that usable forex reserves remain robust at $6,785 million, equivalent to Sh1.02 trillion.
This level is considered sufficient to maintain 3.6 months of import cover, aligning with the regulator's requirement of at least 4 months of import cover.
The CBK's strategic management of forex reserves aims to balance the nation's payments, influence exchange rates, and instil confidence in the market.
In essence, Kenyans abroad, through their increased remittance contributions, are playing a pivotal role in fortifying economic resilience and upholding the stability of their home country's financial landscape.
