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At the United Asian Network (UAN) Leadership Summit 2.0 held in Nairobi, business, civic and government leaders called for stronger integration of Kenya’s Asian community into the country’s economic, civic and national development agenda.
Nairobi, Kenya — September 25, 2025
At the United Asian Network (UAN) Leadership Summit 2.0 held in Nairobi, business, civic and government leaders called for stronger integration of Kenya’s Asian community into the country’s economic, civic and national development agenda. The push comes amid shifts in global trade, rising pluralism debates and a renewed emphasis on diversity as a source of national strength.
The summit, held at the Swaminarayan Temple, focused on three thematic pillars: national engagement, economic repositioning, and youth leadership. Organisers said these themes reflect the need for the Asian community to broaden their role beyond commerce into civic participation and shared identity.
Safaricom CEO Peter Ndegwa urged the community to move from commercial success to visible leadership, saying:
“A seat at the table is not given, it is earned by placing purpose before profit.”
KEPSA Chair Jas Bedi called for business model reforms in response to global and regional trade shifts, urging the community to adopt strategies aligned with new rules of multilateral trade.
Speakers such as CBK Board Chairman Andrew Musangi and DTB CEO Nasim Devji explored how diversity can underpin economic trust and inclusion.
Economic shifts & trade rules: As global trade evolves (with supply chain reconfigurations, rising regional blocs, and digital commerce), communities that adapt will be better positioned. The audience acknowledged that existing models must evolve to stay competitive.
National unity & cohesion: The summit emphasised that pluralism and inclusivity strengthen social stability. Integrating minority communities more fully into civic life helps reduce alienation and promotes shared national goals.
Youth transition & succession: Many in the Asian community are younger generations who balance maintaining heritage with building local identity. Supporting youth leadership and civic engagement was seen as vital for sustainability.
|
Challenge |
Consideration / Recommendation |
|---|---|
|
Perceived separation |
Community institutions must build bridges with national platforms, not remain insular. |
|
Policy & regulation gaps |
Government should review immigration, business licensing, and civic engagement rules that may unintentionally penalise minority communities. |
|
Civic visibility vs commercial identity |
Beyond being known as merchants or entrepreneurs, the community needs presence in public institutions, governance boards, philanthropy, and public policy. |
|
Balancing identity and assimilation |
Integration should respect cultural heritage while fostering loyalty and participation in Kenyan civic life. |
Policy proposals or bills that encourage diverse civic representation—such as board quotas, inclusive appointments, or minority representation in public planning.
Commitments by companies (especially those led by Asians in Kenya) to support public interest causes, intercommunity initiatives, or national development programs.
Youth leadership platforms emerging from the Asian community that cross ethnic lines and engage broader Kenyan civil society.
Partnerships between UAN and mainstream civic or business networks (e.g., KEPSA, government ministries) to institutionalise integration efforts.
