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State urges Kenyans to apply for jobs abroad, assures safety

Shadrack Mwadime, the principal secretary in the State Department for Labour and Skills Development. (Photo: KNA)

By Farhiya Hussein | Thursday, January 18, 2024

PS Shadrack Mwadime said a labor migration desk was set up at the JKIA to quicken the process and curb irregular migration.

The government has urged Kenyans to apply for jobs abroad, as part of efforts to address unemployment, with the promise that it will ensure their safety.

Shadrack Mwadime, the principal secretary in the State Department for Labour and Skills Development, He said a labor migration desk was set up at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) to quicken the process and curb irregular migration.

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Mwadime said the Kenya Kwanza government signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with prominent labour destination countries, including Germany, Austria, Bahrain, Oman, Poland, Jordan, Kuwait, Canada, Ireland, and others. It also too steps to ensure Kenyans are safe while in these countries, he said.

“Ongoing efforts involve recruiting staff to monitor the welfare and working conditions of Kenyans abroad,” he said. “In ensuring the promotion of employment opportunities for migrant workers, we had a job order of 200 nurses last year, which was secured in March, for work in the Ministry of Health in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia."

Noting the positive impact of labor migration on Kenya's economy, Mwadime announced that Labour and Social Protection Cabinet Secretary Florence Bore had secured 2,500 positions for Kenyan healthcare workers in Saudi Arabia. Qualified candidates are supposed to submit their applications via the National Employment Agency (NEA).

Deputy Government Spokesperson Mwanaisha Chidzuga said President William Ruto is committed to securing employment opportunities abroad.

"We acknowledge that many Kenyans have concerns about working abroad but we reassure their safety. Opportunities are available. We encourage them to apply. Kenyans are recognised for their good work ethic and commitment,"Chidzuga said.