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Kenya's Remittances Surge to $4.997 Billion, Topping Tea and Coffee Exports

Remittances from Kenyans abroad have broken records, surpassing traditional exports. The government is now looking to new markets to keep the momentum going.

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1 min read
On the right there are clip, passport size photo and cloth. On the left and in the background it is...
On the right there are clip, passport size photo and cloth. On the left and in the background it is blurred.

Kenya's Remittances Surge to $4.997 Billion, Topping Tea and Coffee Exports

Kenya's remittances have surged to USD 4.997 billion in the past year, a 12.1% increase, with the diaspora playing a crucial role in the country's development. The US remains the top contributor, but new countries like the UK, Germany, and possibly emerging markets with growing Kenyan communities could boost flows further.

Kenya's remittances have been on a steady rise, with USD 422.9 million received in April 2025 alone, a 6.4% increase from the previous year. This growth is attributed to the expanding Kenyan diaspora, improved digital transfer platforms, favorable global employment conditions, and increased financial literacy among migrant workers.

The US accounts for a significant 56% of Kenya's remittances, followed by the UK, Germany, Canada, and the Gulf states. However, the government and financial sector stakeholders are keeping a watchful eye on potential policy changes in major remitting countries that could impact these inflows.

Notably, remittances have now surpassed key traditional exports like tea, coffee, and tourism in terms of foreign exchange earnings for Kenya. They provide vital support to household incomes, education, healthcare, and investments in the country.

Kenya is set to continue engaging with its diaspora to maintain remittances as a key pillar of its development financing strategy. While the US remains the largest source, new countries like the UK, Germany, and emerging markets with growing Kenyan communities could contribute more in the coming months. The government will monitor developments to ensure the stability and growth of these crucial inflows.

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