Dr. Patrick Njoroge

Dr. Patrick Njoroge, the Governor of the Central Bank of Kenya, talked about something very important — remittances. That’s the money that Kenyans working abroad send back to their families here at home.

He reminded us that remittances are not just about money changing hands. They are a powerful way people show love, care, and support for their families. Many Kenyans go to other countries to find work, often facing challenges and sacrifices. The money they send back helps their loved ones pay for everyday needs like food, rent, school fees, and medical bills. It also helps families save and invest in small businesses that create jobs and improve lives.

Dr. Njoroge shared some impressive numbers. Last year, Kenyans living outside the country sent back over 4 billion U.S. dollars. This amount is huge — it’s even more than some of the country’s biggest exports! These remittances have become a steady and reliable source of income for many households, and they play a big role in supporting Kenya’s economy.

He also highlighted how technology has made sending money home easier than ever before. With mobile money platforms like M-Pesa, people can send funds quickly, safely, and at a lower cost. This is one of Kenya’s great success stories in financial innovation. However, he pointed out that in many other countries, people still pay very high fees to send money, which limits how much help reaches their families.

Dr. Njoroge encouraged everyone to think beyond just sending money. If we can channel these remittances into investments, like building homes or funding small businesses, the benefits would be even greater. Remittances have the potential not only to help families meet daily needs but also to build stronger communities and a more resilient economy over time.

He ended with a hopeful message: remittances are a sign of hope and connection between people separated by distance. They represent a shared dream for a better future — for families, for communities, and for the whole country.