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Kenya has taken a major step in strengthening ties with global diaspora communities through the official launch of the Journey Back to Eden (JBE) Initiative.
The programme is being rolled out through a partnership between the Government of Kenya and Traverze Culture, an African American–owned relocation and regenerative company that focuses on creating structured pathways for diaspora return.
It brings together the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife, the Kenya Tourism Board, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, forming a private-sector-driven effort aimed at boosting tourism while encouraging long-term cultural, social, and economic connections.
During the launch event at the Nairobi Serena Hotel, Tourism Principal Secretary John Lekakeny Ololtuaa, who represented Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano, said the initiative introduces a new level of credibility to relocation and settlement processes.
He described Kenya as ready to receive members of the African Diaspora seeking to reconnect with their heritage and explore opportunities in the country.
His message highlighted the country’s openness to African Americans, Afro-Caribbeans, and other global diaspora groups, including Kenyans who have lived abroad for years, to consider returning, investing, and establishing a home in Kenya.
Traverze Culture CEO Kea Wakesho Simmons noted the significant economic potential that diaspora communities hold, pointing out that African Americans alone command USD 1.6 trillion in annual spending power, with the African Diaspora contributing even more.
She explained that JBE provides a credible and organised platform that positions Kenya as a leading destination for cultural return, investment, tourism, and long-term settlement.
Also in attendance was Tuua Safaris CEO Lucy Kimanzi, who praised Traverze for selecting Kenya as their preferred destination. As a partner in the Journey Back to Eden initiative, Tuua Safaris noted that the programme aims to link the African Diaspora with opportunities across the continent while strengthening cultural reconnection.
The initiative also benefits from the involvement of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), which brings additional trust and support in areas such as healthcare, education, financial services, and community wellbeing.
This added partnership ensures that families and investors relocating from abroad can access the services and stability needed to build sustainable lives in Kenya.
As part of its offering, the JBE Initiative will organise immersive 7-day and 12-day experiences that expose participants to Kenya’s potential in real estate, relocation options, medical tourism, wellness, entrepreneurship, investment opportunities, and cultural reconnection.
The programme aligns with the country’s broader plan to strengthen economic and social ties with diaspora communities globally while boosting key sectors including tourism, real estate, and medical travel.
According to Simmons, the goal of Journey Back to Eden is to provide far more than a visit it aims to create a clear pathway home.
She added that the partnership with PDM Group enhances the programme’s structure and reliability, giving participants the information and support they need to make confident decisions on housing, investment, business prospects, and long-term settlement.
Traverze Culture, the company partnering in this initiative, is a relocation and regenerative travel organisation founded by African Americans. It specialises in programmes that reconnect the African Diaspora to opportunities across the continent through tourism, real estate, medical access, investment guidance, and cultural reintegration.
