Kenyan Nurses Decry Exploitation in Saudi Arabia

Kenyan nurses, recruited under a government-sponsored international employment initiative, have raised serious allegations concerning their working conditions in Saudi Arabia.

The lament the difference between promised labour standards and the realities they face. These nurses describe their experiences as rife with severe exploitation, likening their labour environment to modern slavery. Central to their grievances are demanding work schedules that eliminate previously assured rest days, coupled with persistent claims of racial discrimination. Journalist Larry Madowo has brought these accusations to the forefront, sharing direct communications from the nurses addressing their hardships.

A troubling employment notice reveals management's decision to rescind scheduled days off, aggravating the frustrations of these workers. Initially drawn to the Saudi employment opportunity as a means to improve their financial standing, the nurses now confront systemic abuses in their workplace. Their reports indicate that continuous work demands are the norm, with breaks granted seemingly only in cases of medical emergencies.

"Please be informed that, following a meeting held on 27 November, it has been decided that all employees will no longer have scheduled days off. Kindly ensure this information is disseminated and that the new directive is complied with," reads part of a notice to employees, as shared by Larry Madowo.

In response to these alarming accusations, Diaspora Affairs Principal Secretary Roseline Njogu has indicated that the Ministry has not received formal distress reports from the affected nurses. She has urged those facing difficulties to file official complaints through designated diplomatic channels, specifically the Kenyan Embassy in Riyadh or the State Department for Diaspora Affairs. The Kenyan Ministry of Labour previously announced 2,500 available healthcare positions in Saudi Arabia, with recruitment spearheaded by Fast Reliable Enterprises and Nasmama Services Limited.

The current allegations, however, raise concerns regarding the integrity of the recruitment process and the mechanisms in place for worker protection. Reports from the nurses reveal that their attempts to seek government intervention have met with dismissal, with some supervisors suggesting that discontented workers can resign.

"If you find the way we manage things intolerable, you have the right to resign. If you are dissatisfied with your current situation, please send an email to raise your concerns," read a notice from a supervisor.