Kenya and Austria Sign Agreement on Migration and Labour Mobility

Kenya and Austria have taken a significant step to improve their bilateral partnership by signing an agreement on the movement of people and migration.

The agreement, executed by Kenya's Foreign Affairs Cabinet Secretary and Austria's Federal Minister for Foreign and European Affairs Alexander Schallenberg establishes a comprehensive framework for collaboration in various areas, including labour mobility, economic development, and student training. This transformative accord aims to create enhanced opportunities for citizens of both nations. It encompasses cooperation in technical and vocational education, student training programs, and initiatives for return and reintegration. The negotiation process was led by Diaspora Affairs Principal Secretary Roseline Kathure Njogu and Georg Stillfried, Director General for Consular Affairs at Austria's Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs.

The MoU outlines plans for both countries to develop initiatives that will establish regular migration pathways, expand employment opportunities, and support the integration and return of migrant workers. This agreement is expected to cultivate synergies between the labour markets of Kenya and Austria, thereby stimulating economic growth and addressing shared challenges in migration management. By facilitating the movement of skilled workers between the two countries, the MoU aims to address sector-specific labour shortages while providing Kenyan workers with valuable opportunities to gain international experience and skills. The agreement also includes provisions for the dignified return and reintegration of migrant workers, which is essential for maintaining strong ties between the diaspora and their home country, as well as leveraging internationally acquired skills for national development.

A key component of the MoU is its focus on technical and vocational education. Through collaboration in this area, Kenya and Austria aim to enhance the quality and relevance of vocational training programs, making them more responsive to labour market demands. This cooperation is anticipated to result in a more skilled workforce capable of meeting the needs of modern industries. The student training programs included in the MoU will offer young people from both countries opportunities to gain practical experience and develop their skills in real-world settings, which is crucial for preparing students for successful careers and fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. The signing of this MoU is part of a broader effort to strengthen Kenya-Austria relations.

In recent years, both countries have demonstrated a commitment to deepening their bilateral ties through various initiatives and high-level engagements. The agreement builds on this foundation by addressing shared challenges and creating new avenues for cooperation. It also reflects the shared foreign policy priorities of Kenya and Austria, including a commitment to promoting sustainable development, enhancing economic cooperation, and supporting the well-being of their citizens. In addition to the MoU, Kenya and Austria have agreed to establish a formal mechanism for regular and structured political consultations. This will ensure ongoing meaningful dialogue and the timely and effective addressing of emerging issues.