Kenya’s wealthiest citizens show little interest in pursuing foreign passports or residency options, according to Knight Frank’s Wealth & Investment Trends 2026 report.
Even as global mobility programmes gain traction, High-Net-Worth Individuals (HNWIs) remain focused on living and investing in Kenya. In a survey of wealth advisers, half said fewer than 10% of their clients were considering a second passport, while 38% reported that none of their clients sought alternative citizenship.
The report says the pattern mirrors findings from 2025. It suggests that Kenya’s affluent continue to have strong confidence in the country’s long-term economic prospects despite ongoing global uncertainty. With major investments already committed to local real estate, agriculture, technology, and private businesses, many see relocation as far less attractive.
Kenya’s role as a regional financial and commercial hub also reinforces the decision to remain. Over the years, many wealthy individuals have built extensive business networks and long-standing commercial relationships that would be difficult to rebuild elsewhere.
Family and community ties further influence these residency choices. Close family connections and established social networks continue to guide where Kenya’s affluent choose to live, which lowers the appeal of foreign citizenship programmes.
Overall, the findings show that while wealthy people worldwide pursue greater mobility through second citizenship or residency schemes, Kenya’s affluent largely choose to stay. Knight Frank attributes this staying power to continued confidence in the domestic economy, deep-rooted business interests, and strong social ties.
