Kenya Steps Up Efforts to Protect Migrant Workers From Exploitation

Kenya’s Principal Secretary for Diaspora Affairs, Roseline Njogu, has met Principal Judge of the Employment and Labour Relations Court (ELRC), Lady Justice Monica 

Mbaru, to discuss stronger protection for Kenyans working overseas. The meeting was held in Nairobi on Monday, ahead of the fourth Employment and Labour Relations Annual Symposium (ELRASE IV), scheduled for 16 to 18 September under the theme “Labour Migration and Access to Justice.”

Njogu and Mbaru discussed the need for closer institutional cooperation to address challenges affecting migrant workers. These include access to justice, fair treatment in foreign jurisdictions and the regulation of recruitment practices.

The discussions also highlighted the legal and welfare risks faced by Kenyans seeking employment abroad. While overseas employment provides economic opportunities, migrant workers can face exploitation, unfair contracts and difficulties accessing legal remedies when disputes arise.

The meeting was attended by senior officials from the Diaspora Affairs Office and the ELRC, including Registrar Frederick Nyamora, Veronica Wamucii, Irene Karari, Ms Ayaan and Ms Nikki.