After Police Recruits, Qatar Now Seeks Kenyan Kiswahili Teachers, Mudavadi

The Kenyan government has announced the inclusion of Kiswahili language teachers in the list of skilled workers eligible for foreign labour markets.

This decision comes after a productive meeting in Nairobi between Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and Qatari Ambassador to Kenya Mohamed Al-Enazi, where they focused on strengthening the existing labour export agreement between the two nations. The discussions highlighted the growing demand for skilled Kenyan workers in Qatar, reflecting an evolving bilateral relationship.

Since 2024, Qatar has recruited approximately 7,000 Kenyans in various sectors, notably nursing and security. Mudavadi expresses hope for the expansion of these opportunities to encompass Kiswahili teachers, citing the potential economic benefits of remittances for Kenyan families. He underscores the positive impact that such financial support could have on the country’s economy.

The meeting also revealed Qatar's recent hiring of 200 Kenyans into its National Police Force. This development is part of ongoing efforts to deepen collaboration between Kenya and Qatar, particularly concerning media operations and capacity-building initiatives. In November 2024, the Kenyan government unveiled an ambitious labour export program intending to send one million Kenyans abroad each year.

This initiative is designed to address rising unemployment rates, especially among the youth, by creating substantial job opportunities. The Ministry of Labour is responsible for overseeing recruitment processes, regulating private employment agencies, and negotiating bilateral agreements to ensure fair employment practices. However, concerns have been raised regarding the potential exploitation of Kenyan workers in foreign markets.

Reports of mistreatment and, in some cases, mysterious deaths of Kenyan migrant workers have highlighted the need for stringent regulations to protect workers abroad. In a related development, Mudavadi has invited Qatari business leaders to the World Chambers Congress scheduled for April 9–11 in Nairobi. This congress marks the first time the event will take place in Africa, presenting an opportunity to showcase Kenya’s business potential.

Moreover, plans are underway to relocate the upcoming Foreign Ministerial meeting from Nairobi to Doha in November 2025. This adjustment aims to fortify diplomatic ties and enhance cooperation between the two countries. Overall, these initiatives reflect Kenya's proactive approach to addressing unemployment through international partnerships while prioritizing the welfare and protection of its citizens working abroad.