The Reverse Migration: African Americans Relocating to Kenya Cite Heritage and Restoration

July 29, 2025

Kenneth Harris, a 38-year-old retired veteran, relocated from Atlanta to Nairobi, Kenya two years ago seeking a place where his dark skin is a mark of shared heritage rather than suspicion. He is part of a growing wave of African Americans moving to Kenya to connect with their ancestral roots, attracted by the tropical climate and welcoming community. In Nairobi, Harris runs an Airbnb business and enjoys a luxurious lifestyle in an upmarket neighborhood, describing Kenya as his "new home.

Who is affected

African Americans relocating to Kenya and other African countries
Kenneth Harris and other transplants who have established businesses in Nairobi
Local Kenyan communities receiving these new residents
The United States, which is experiencing a form of "brain drain" according to experts
Businesses catering to relocating African Americans, such as Adilah Relocation Services
African economies that may benefit from these relocations

What action is being taken

African Americans are actively relocating to Kenya and other African countries like Ghana
Kenneth Harris is running an Airbnb business in Nairobi
Adilah Mohammad's company is helping African Americans relocate by providing services like house hunting and establishing banking and medical services
African Americans are establishing various businesses in Nairobi including travel agencies, restaurants, and farms
Ghana is granting citizenship to members of the Black diaspora through formal ceremonies

Why it matters

The migration represents African Americans seeking connection with their ancestral heritage, often described as "coming home"
Relocating individuals cite finding social acceptance, peace of mind, and a sense of belonging in Kenya
The trend challenges the narrative of America as the "land of opportunities and dreams"
African economies may benefit from these relocations, particularly from those willing to address corruption and create favorable investment environments
The United States is losing human resources and experiencing a form of "brain drain"
The movement represents what some describe as "mental freedom" and a breaking of "shackles"

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint