The Swedish government has introduced a new initiative offering financial incentives to Kenyan immigrants and others to voluntarily return to their home countries.
The move, aimed at reducing the growing immigrant population in Sweden, comes as the country faces challenges accommodating the influx of migrants.
The program, which is set to begin in 2026, offers Kenyans the opportunity to receive financial assistance to facilitate their repatriation.
Under the proposed plan, the Swedish government will provide up to Ksh 126,204 for each adult and Ksh 62,600 for each child in a family.
The total amount for a family will be capped at Ksh 504,816. This financial aid is intended to support the migrants’ return and resettlement in their home countries.
Currently, the Swedish government is offering these payments to migrants who are willing to leave voluntarily.
The decision is part of a broader migration policy shift in Sweden. Migration Minister Johan Forssell commented, “We are in the midst of a paradigm shift in our migration policy,” signaling the government’s effort to manage the increasing strain on resources brought by the rising migrant population.
In addition to the individual and family payments, Sweden is setting aside a fund of Ksh 4.3 million to support the voluntary repatriation program, which targets unemployed migrants and those whose activities are perceived as misaligned with Swedish societal values.
The goal is to alleviate pressure on Sweden’s social services, housing, and healthcare systems.
