Kenya’s former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua is set to embark on his first foreign trip to the U.S. since his removal from office in October 2024.
The upcoming journey is viewed as a pivotal moment for Gachagua, who aims to re-establish his political presence and galvanize support from Kenyans living abroad ahead of the 2027 general election.
Gachagua, now at the helm of the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP), is scheduled to engage with the Kenyan diaspora through a series of town hall meetings and social events intended to promote his agenda for the community.
His itinerary includes visits to prominent cities across the United States, with stops planned in Dallas, California, Seattle, Boston, and Baltimore between July and August.
“We are looking to connect directly with Kenyans in the U.S. and gather insights from the diaspora about their needs and aspirations,” said a source familiar with the trip. “This is going to be a major tour for the DCP leader and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, aimed at fostering a two-way dialogue.”
The former DP’s visit comes on the heels of a series of diaspora engagements initiated by fellow opposition leader Fred Matiang’i, who recently held a town hall meeting in Texas. The events emphasize the growing trend among Kenyan opposition figures to reach out to expatriates, recognizing their increasing influence in national matters.
In his engagements, Gachagua will likely interact with selected American businesspeople and investors. Insiders indicate that he aims to secure partnerships and support for the DCP, seeking to position the opposition as a credible alternative to the ruling party ahead of the crucial elections scheduled for 2027.
Like other opposition figures, Gachagua is aware of the importance of leveraging the Kenyan diaspora. It is estimated that millions of Kenyans reside outside the country, particularly in the U.S., contributing significantly to the nation’s economy through remittances. During his trip, Gachagua intends to emphasize the role of the diaspora in building a prosperous future for Kenya.
The former Deputy President’s planned events include concerts featuring Kenyan artists living in the U.S., an approach that resonates well with the cultural ties shared between Kenyans abroad and their homeland. These events are seen as an opportunity not only for entertainment but also for mobilizing support for his political agenda.
Gachagua’s party, the DCP, is part of a broader opposition coalition that features prominent political figures, including Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka and People’s Liberation Party leader Martha Karua. This coalition is keen to showcase unity and collective vision as they prepare for the upcoming election cycle.
Matiang’i’s recent meeting in Texas illustrates the strategic importance of these diaspora engagements. Drawing a diverse crowd eager to learn about his vision for Kenya, Matiang’i echoed sentiments that resonate with many expatriates. “We cannot build a future for Kenya without the diaspora,” he told attendees. “Your voice matters. Your presence counts.”
As Gachagua prepares for his journey, analysts believe that these outreach efforts may prove vital in shaping public perception of the DCP and the opposition as a whole. By actively participating in the discussions that affect Kenyans both at home and abroad, Gachagua is strategically positioning himself to reclaim influence within the political arena.
His outreach to the diaspora comes at a time of heightened political sensitivity in Kenya, where ongoing discussions about governance, economic recovery, and inclusive leadership are prevalent.
