Nairobi, Kenya – The Ministry of Labour and Social Protection in Kenya is actively developing policies, legislation, and programs to improve working conditions and enhance the protection of Kenyan migrant workers. This effort includes a stringent vetting process for private employment agencies.

According to Kenya News Agency, Shadrack Mwadime, Principal Secretary of the State Department for Labour and Skills Development, explained that private employment agencies are required to undergo thorough vetting and obtain government approval before sending Kenyan citizens for employment outside the country. As of 2023, there are 983 vetted employment agencies in Kenya, with 510 holding valid licenses and 473 with expired permits.

The National Employment Authority (NEA) plays a critical role in facilitating job placements for Kenyans both locally and abroad. “There will be a dedicated desk at the airport to expedite the clearance process for migrant workers, a distress reporting mechanism information handbook, capacity-building programs, and a migrant welfare fund to strengthen protection measures,” the Principal Secretary stated.

Labor Attaché offices, bilateral agreements, and legislative frameworks are also being developed to ensure the protection of workers in various destination countries. The government, in collaboration with NEA, has successfully placed 123,114 Kenyans in employment opportunities both abroad and locally.

Speaking at the National Employment offices in Kasarani, the Principal Secretary reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting the rights of migrant workers and promoting safe and ethical labor migration practices.