The government has initiated an ambitious labour migration program aimed at exporting skilled and semi-skilled Kenyan workers to foreign markets. Principal Secretary in the State Department for Labour and Skills Development, Shadrack Mwadime, has championed the initiative as a pragmatic solution to unemployment, especially among the youth.
During an interview on KBC Channel 1, Mwadime elaborated on the initiative, citing success stories from Southeast Asia. “South Korea sent young people to Japan, where they acquired knowledge and skills which they brought home. Today, South Korea is able to compete with Japan,” he said. The Kenyan government hopes to replicate this model by enabling its citizens to gain valuable expertise abroad, which can ultimately benefit the country upon their return.
Labour Migration Agreements
The Kenya Kwanza administration is actively negotiating bilateral agreements with destination countries to absorb Kenyan workers. These agreements are opening doors in various fields, from healthcare to information technology (IT). Mwadime highlighted that Germany, for instance, has waived language requirements for young Kenyans seeking employment in their IT sector, a move that underscores the demand for Kenyan talent.
“So far, we have placed about 108,000 Kenyans this year, and the numbers are increasing,” Mwadime revealed. The government envisions even greater achievements as more agreements are finalized, particularly with European nations that offer robust opportunities for Kenyan workers.
Benefits to the Economy
One of the key goals of the labour migration initiative is to boost Kenya’s economy through increased remittances. Mwadime noted that Kenyans abroad remitted Ksh663 billion last year, a figure representing just 5% of their total savings. “If we create a conducive environment for Kenyans abroad, even a trillion is possible,” he asserted.
These remittances are vital not only for individual families but also for the country’s economic stability. Beyond monetary gains, returning workers are expected to invest in Kenya and bring back skills and experiences that can enhance productivity and competitiveness in local industries.
Temporary Contracts for Sustainable Growth
The program emphasizes temporary contracts, typically lasting three to five years, to ensure that the knowledge and wealth gained abroad are reinvested back home. “Our objective is not for Kenyans to migrate permanently. We want them to return home after completing their contracts to invest,” Mwadime said.
This approach aligns with the government’s broader strategy to foster sustainable economic growth by leveraging the experiences of returnees.
Safeguarding Kenyan Workers
Recognizing the potential risks of labour migration, the government has implemented measures to protect its citizens from exploitation. Pre-departure training is conducted to prepare workers for the challenges of foreign environments. Additionally, labour attachés are stationed in destination countries to safeguard the interests of Kenyan workers.
“Our primary objective is to protect Kenyans abroad. These measures ensure they are not exploited and can work in environments that respect their rights,” Mwadime emphasized.
A Broader Vision for the Labour Market
The labour migration program is not limited to traditional sectors like healthcare; it also targets emerging industries such as IT, which are experiencing rapid growth globally. By focusing on such sectors, the initiative aims to position Kenyan workers as competitive players in the international labour market.
Mwadime expressed optimism about the program’s potential to transform Kenya’s economy. He pointed out that remittances, skills acquisition, and foreign exposure could significantly bolster the country’s development trajectory.
Conclusion
As Kenya grapples with high unemployment rates, the government’s labour migration initiative offers a beacon of hope. By providing opportunities for Kenyans to work abroad, the program not only addresses immediate job shortages but also promises long-term economic benefits through remittances, skills transfer, and investments. With adequate safeguards in place, the initiative is poised to become a cornerstone of Kenya’s economic strategy, empowering its citizens while fostering national growth.
