The effect of Kenya’s immigration policy on regional integration in the East African Community

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to examine the effect of Kenya’s immigration policy on regional integration within the EAC. Although Kenya’s immigration policy aligns with the East Africa Community Map (EACMP), as detailed in the 2010 Kenyan Constitutional and the Kenyan Citizenship and Immigration Act of 2011. Obstacles persist that prevent the free movement of people, labour, establishment rights, and residence rights despite East African Community (EAC) foreign citizens being exempt from visa and work permit requirements. The Kenyan government, however, insists on demanding these documents. The study employed a mixed methods approach with a convergent parallel research design. Quantitative data was analysed using inferential statistics in SPSS version 25, while qualitative data was analysed through content analysis. A sample size of 400 respondents was used. The findings show that Kenya’s immigration policy has successfully encouraged the free movement of labour, people, establishment rights, and residence rights within the EAC. In conclusion, Kenya’s immigration policy has significantly contributed to advancing regional integration within the EAC. It is suggested that the Kenyan government simplify the permit procedures for EAC investors aiming to establish legitimate businesses in Kenya. The immigration policymakers in Kenya should ensure that the rights and benefits available for EAC foreign nationals wishing to reside in Kenya are covered by the policy in accordance with EACMP.