Stringent Regulations Proposed on Overseas Recruiters Sending Kenyans Abroad

Senator Crystal Asige has put forth a set of fresh regulations aimed at overseeing the process of sending Kenyans abroad through recruitment agencies.

The National Employment Authority (Amendment) Bill 2023, put forth by her, aims to establish a requirement for recruiters to obtain a license before engaging in their activities. This proposed law would necessitate recruiters to apply to the appropriate agency, furnishing comprehensive particulars regarding their operations, business address, and the foreign destinations to which their employees will be sent. Additionally, recruiters will be mandated to obtain an indemnity cover for their employees.

Recruiters must also adhere to a levy set by the law, which will be utilized to fund the expenses of repatriating workers in emergencies and transporting the deceased worker's body back to Kenya. Additionally, recruiters will be responsible for gathering and providing the National Employment Authority (NEA) with a comprehensive report. This report should include details of the employed individuals, their employment status, available job positions, and any other pertinent information required by the NEA.

On the other hand, the NEA will have the duty of releasing a roster of authorized recruiters in the Kenya Gazette. The law also stipulates that the government will strive to allow Kenyan workers to be sent exclusively to countries that uphold the rights of Kenyan migrant workers. The Senator highlights that Kenyans working overseas play a crucial role in Kenya's economy by sending home remittances that exceed Sh4 billion annually. She stresses the significance of legislation that safeguards the welfare of these individuals, ensuring their continued economic contribution.