HOW ARE MIGRATION AND THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN MIGRATION AND DEVELOPMENT FRAMED IN PUBLIC DEBATES IN KENYA AND RWANDA?

Migration and development are deeply interconnected phenomena, shaping economic, social, and political landscapes worldwide. While extensive research has been conducted in developed countries, there is limited understanding of how migration and its relationship to development are framed by diverse actors in the Global South, particularly in East Africa. This dissertation investigates the ways in which actors in Kenya and Rwanda frame migration and its nexus with development, exploring the narratives, discourses, and strategies employed by key stakeholders, including governments, international organizations, civil society, private sector entities, and the media. Drawing on the theoretical framework such as the framing theory, this study examines how migration is constructed in public discourse, policy documents, and media representations. Using qualitative methods, including content analysis of policy texts, interviews with stakeholders, and media analysis, the research identifies dominant frames, their implications for public opinion, and their influence on policy-making processes. The findings reveal that in Kenya, migration is often framed as a challenge linked to national security and refugee management, alongside opportunities for economic growth through labor migration and diaspora engagement. In Rwanda, migration is predominantly framed as a driver of economic development and regional integration, reflecting the government's Vision 2050 agenda. However, both countries also grapple with narratives of inequality, dependency, and brain drain associated with migration. This dissertation contributes to bridging the gap in literature by highlighting the specificities of East African perspectives on migration and development. It underscores the need for inclusive frameworks that consider the multiplicity of actors and the complex realities of migration in the region. The study concludes with recommendations for policy and practice, advocating for a balanced approach that aligns migration management with sustainable development goals in Kenya, Rwanda, and the broader East African context