Analysis of the Impact of Immigration on Regional Integration of Eac. Case Study of Kenya

Abstract

This study sought to establish the nexus between Kenya’s immigration policies and the process of integration in East African community (EAC). The centrality of immigration in integration process is vital in actualizing the objectives of the binding treaty that created the regional integrated community. Issues of immigration have shaped the ever-growing debate on free movement across the member states borders. Whereas, regional integration envisions a community where people can move and establish residence in their partner state territory, policy challenges inherent in immigration continue to hamper the realization of meaningful integration. Essentially, this study sought to establish whether immigration policies adopted by member states are tailored to suit integration ideals of unrestricted movement, and rights of residence and establishment as enshrined in the Community’s Treaty. To achieve that the study utilized a case study of Kenyan immigration policies under the general objective; to establish the nexus between Kenya’s immigration policies and integration process in the East African Community. Specific objectives were; to assess the policy framework governing immigration in Kenya; to review the process of integration in EAC and to establish potential impact of implementation of Kenya’s immigration policies on EAC integration process. This study was conceptualized under migration theory postulated by Ravenstein. The study was conducted in Nairobi where most of immigrants are resettled and majority of government institutions concerned with immigration are located. The study used a non-probability sampling method of purposive or judgmental sampling and a sample size of 50 respondents who responded to questionnaires sampled by use of stratified random sampling techniques. To measure reliability and validity of data collection instruments the study performed a pilot study on 10 per cent of the respondents form the immigration department. The researcher utilized questionnaires to gather primary data which was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS version 11.5). Here quantitative data such as percentages and frequencies were run, which were then formulated and tabulated in tables and graphs as directed by the research objectives. The findings established by the study were presented in a summary and tailor made recommendations were proposed to revamp the government policy in line with the broader objective of effective regional integration