A Life in Suitcases: A Journey from Michigan to Kenya
In West Lansing, Michigan, Samuel Kangethe’s living room tells a story of transition. As five suitcases lay open, they symbolize a life packed and ready to move. Kangethe, once an accountant in Michigan and a father of three, is preparing to return to his homeland, Kenya.
Samuel Kangethe arrives with his luggage at the Detroit Metro Airport on August 17, 2025. Sergio Martínez-Beltrán/NPR
For Kangethe, the United States was a land of opportunity, offering him the chance to earn graduate degrees and start a family. However, a legal battle over his immigration status has prompted his decision to leave voluntarily, avoiding the risk of deportation by ICE.
The Decision to Return
Despite having no criminal record, Kangethe’s case was complicated by a past marriage deemed fraudulent by immigration authorities in 2014. His subsequent marriage and family have been unable to shield him from deportation proceedings, which were delayed by the pandemic and now leave him in legal uncertainty.
Facing a court date in January 2026 with no resolution in sight, Kangethe chose to return to Kenya to avoid the possibility of being detained. “Deportation is the worst thing that would come out of this case,” he admits. “How about if I take myself out as a show of good faith?”
His departure is bittersweet, as he leaves behind a life he built over 16 years, including three children and his wife, Latavia.
A Farewell to Friends and Family
Before departing, Kangethe’s wife organized a surprise farewell party, attended by numerous friends. Emotionally moved, Kangethe reflected on the impact he had on those around him. Despite the emotional farewell, he sees his departure as a necessary step.
He worries about the financial burden his absence will place on his family, now reliant on a single income and a GoFundMe campaign for support.
“This is the safest option that I had on the table for me,” he explains, acknowledging the pain it causes both him and his children.
A New Beginning in Kenya
Kangethe’s departure from Detroit Metro Airport was marked by the company of close friends, including Lawrence Hiti, who expressed understanding of Kangethe’s decision. His sister Elizabeth traveled from Kenya to accompany him on his journey back, offering support as he transitions to life in Kenya after nearly two decades away.
Samuel Kangethe and his sister Elizabeth wait to board the first of two flights that will take them to Kenya. Sergio Martínez-Beltrán/NPR
While Kangethe embarks on an uncertain future, he remains hopeful about adapting to Kenyan life, with Elizabeth by his side to help guide his transition.
As he boarded his flight, Kangethe made a final video call to his family, promising to stay connected. “I’m really praying that he will be able to come and absorb everything and adapt into the new environment,” Elizabeth says, optimistic about his return to a life he left behind years ago.
This article was originally written by www.npr.org
