Nairobi, Kenya – On Wednesday, October 22, 2025, Wiper Democratic Movement Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka welcomed Huldah Momanyi Hiltsley, the U.S. Representative for Minnesota’s District 38A, to the SKM Command Centre in Nairobi. The meeting highlighted the growing influence of the Kenyan diaspora in international politics and focused on collaborative efforts for social development.

Momanyi Hiltsley made history in the 2024 U.S. elections as the first Kenyan-American to be elected to public office in the State of Minnesota, serving under the Democratic–Farmer–Labor (DFL) Party, an affiliate of the U.S. Democratic Party. She secured her seat in the Minnesota House of Representatives, representing District 38A, after defeating Republican Brad Olson with 64.78% of the vote in the November 5, 2024, general election.

In a statement shared on his official X account following their engagement, Kalonzo commended Momanyi Hiltsley for her inspiring leadership and dedication to social empowerment.

Productive Engagement on Girls' Empowerment

Kalonzo revealed that their discussions were productive, expressing keen interest in Momanyi Hiltsley's passion project focused on uplifting the lives of girls and ensuring their continued education. Momanyi Hiltsley founded SaniPads in 2014, an initiative dedicated to keeping girls in school in Kenya.

Born in Nyamemiso village, Nyamira, Kenya, in 1985, Huldah Momanyi Hiltsley moved to the U.S. with her family at the age of nine. Her family's journey to the U.S. was marked by immigration challenges, including a near-deportation incident that was ultimately resolved through political advocacy. She earned three Bachelor's degrees in International Business, International Relations, and Reconciliation Studies, and a Master's in Global Business Management, all from Bethel University.

Political Context and Diaspora Influence

Momanyi Hiltsley's election is a significant milestone for Kenyan immigrants in American politics, demonstrating the increasing representation of the diaspora. Her district, 38A, which includes parts of Brooklyn Park and Osseo, is notably diverse, with approximately 66% of its residents identifying as people of colour, many of whom are African immigrants.

The SKM Command Centre, located in Hardy, Karen, Nairobi, serves as a key operational hub for Kalonzo Musyoka's political activities. Kalonzo has previously used the centre for various engagements, including meetings with the Matatu Owners Association and receiving foreign dignitaries.

Unanswered Questions and Future Outlook

While the meeting focused on areas of mutual interest, specific details regarding potential collaborations or timelines for implementing joint projects were not immediately disclosed. The extent to which this engagement will translate into concrete initiatives benefiting Kenyan girls or strengthening Kenya-U.S. diaspora ties remains to be seen.

This interaction underscores the growing importance of diaspora engagement in national development and international relations. As more Kenyans achieve political success abroad, their connections to their homeland offer new avenues for collaboration and influence.