By Selian Mbari
Cabinet Secretary for Labour and Social Protection Dr. Alfred Mutua appeared before the National Assembly Committee on Diaspora Affairs and Migrant Workers to provide an update on the government’s efforts to streamline labour migration, particularly following the recruitment of 8,000 skilled Kenyans to Qatar.
Addressing MPs at County Hall, Dr. Mutua said the initiative was part of a broader agenda to create jobs, enhance labour mobility, and empower Kenyan youth. The recruitment followed a December 2024 job fair, where over 6,000 job seekers participated and 300 were deployed to Qatar, with further drives held across six counties.
“This process has brought new hope to many families, but it hasn’t been without challenges,” he said.
“We’ve encountered delays in documentation, financial constraints for applicants, failed medical tests, and last-minute withdrawals. But we’re actively addressing these gaps,” he added.
Dr. Mutua highlighted several measures taken by the Ministry, including the vetting of over 1,100 Private Employment Agencies (PEAs), of which only 583 currently hold valid licenses. He also cited increased snap inspections, the blacklisting of rogue agencies, and the deployment of Labour Migration Desks at JKIA and Mombasa International Airport to curb exploitation.
“Looking forward, the Ministry continues to push for the enactment of the Labour Migration Management Bill, 2024, which will strengthen the legal framework for protecting Kenyan migrant workers and holding unethical recruiters accountable,” Mutua reiterated.
The Ministry is also advancing digital reforms, including the online attestation of foreign employment contracts and reintegration support through Migrant Resource Centres.
Dr. Mutua assured the Committee of continued collaboration and transparency, pledging to keep Parliament fully informed as the Ministry expands job opportunities abroad for Kenyan citizens.