Government Encourages Kenyans to Seek Opportunities Abroad with Assured Safety

The Principal Secretary of the State Department for Labour and Skills Development Shadrack Mwadime is urging Kenyans to pursue job opportunities abroad with the assurance of their safety.

Mwadime has announced that the government has established a labour migration desk at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA). Mwadime explains that the purpose of this desk is to protect the well-being of Kenyan workers in other countries. The main objective is to prevent illegal migration and create a stable, secure, and beneficial working environment for Kenyans overseas. Mwadime strongly believes that labour migration is crucial for the economic growth and development of the country, providing numerous job opportunities for Kenyans.

Mwadime further emphasizes that these individuals contribute to their home country's growth by investing in it while working abroad. He discloses that the number of Kenyan workers overseas has risen, totalling approximately four million people with a range of skills. He says that the government has established Memorandums of Understanding with several countries such as Germany, Austria, Bahrain, Oman, Poland, Jordan, Kuwait, Canada, and Ireland. These agreements are intended to enhance employment prospects for migrant workers.

In 2023, the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Health set out to recruit 200 nurses. With the assistance of government backing, this objective was successfully met by March. To safeguard the welfare of migrant workers, Florence Bore, the Cabinet Secretary for Labour and Social Protection, has ensured the availability of 2,500 employment prospects for healthcare experts in Saudi Arabia. Individuals who meet the necessary criteria are urged to submit their applications for these roles via the National Employment Agency (NEA).

Mwadime says that the government prioritizes the security and welfare of its citizens working abroad. To address any concerns or problems, support desks and helpline numbers have been established. The government will swiftly intervene to safeguard its nationals if any issues arise. Moreover, there will be an increase in personnel to oversee the well-being, employment, and actions of Kenyan workers overseas. Additionally, a savings initiative will be introduced to help migrant workers access their retirement funds, in line with the upcoming Migrant Labour Bill.