"Don't Lose Who You Are": Kenyans in Botswana Told to Guard Their Identity Abroad

The Kenya Youth Diaspora Association (KEYDA) held a dialogue in Gaborone, Botswana, on 3 May 2026, bringing together young professionals and students from Kenya, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and Zambia to discuss identity, settlement, and community among Africans living abroad.

The event took place at River Ridge Guest House Extension 9 and centred on a keynote address by Kenya’s High Commissioner to Botswana, Her Excellency Ambassador Sadiyo Dido Bashuna. Speaking as both a diplomat and a parent with children living overseas, Ambassador Bashuna urged Kenyans abroad to preserve their identity while adapting to life in other countries.

“Don’t dilute your identity to fit in,” she told attendees, stressing that culture and heritage should remain a source of pride regardless of where Kenyans live. While encouraging respect for host cultures, she cautioned against abandoning one’s roots in pursuit of acceptance.

Ambassador Bashuna also warned against isolation and encouraged young people to connect with fellow Kenyans and supportive communities when settling in new countries. She said strong networks provide mentorship, emotional support, and cultural grounding, helping ease the challenges of living abroad.

She further encouraged participants to represent Kenya with dignity and professionalism, describing them as cultural ambassadors. Symbols such as the Kenyan bracelet, she said, can serve as reminders of heritage and shared identity.

Education and continuous self-improvement were also key themes in her address. Ambassador Bashuna said lifelong learning remains essential in an increasingly competitive global environment. She also urged participants to use their achievements to support and uplift other Kenyans and Africans in the diaspora.

The programme included panel discussions featuring Kopo Keakitse, Benson Thagana, Charles Rop, and Gian Grob, who shared personal experiences of settlement, adaptation, and networking abroad. Their discussions focused on the practical realities of building relationships and support systems in foreign countries.

The event was supported by several individuals and organisations. The High Commission of Kenya to Botswana provided refreshments, while sponsor Richard Ochieng contributed financial support for the venue and catering. Mr and Mrs Karanja supplied additional chairs to accommodate attendees.

Organisation of the event was led by KEYDA Botswana’s executive team under Founding Chairperson Victor Gitonga. The team included Waithera Mburu, Wangari Karanja, Eliezer Gachoga, Maria Mainah, Felix Kagwi, Shirley Gitonga, Precious Getubo, Seneo Mburu, and Stacy Wangari.