The Parliamentary Committee on Diaspora and Immigrant Workers recently hosted Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, Dr. Alfred Mutua, to address growing concerns surrounding illegal recruitment agencies, the status of bilateral labour agreements, and the availability of jobs for Kenyans in the diaspora.
During the session, committee members pressed CS Mutua on the government’s efforts to crack down on unscrupulous recruitment agencies that have been exploiting Kenyans seeking employment abroad.
Lawmakers demanded stronger regulation and enforcement to protect vulnerable migrant workers from abuse and trafficking.
CS Mutua outlined ongoing measures, including the vetting of recruitment agencies, tightening licensing requirements, and increasing public awareness.
He also noted that the government is renegotiating and signing new bilateral labour agreements (BLAs) with key destination countries to ensure decent working conditions and legal protections for Kenyan workers.
In response to questions about job availability, the CS cited current opportunities in countries such as Saudi Arabia, Germany, and Canada, emphasizing that the ministry is working to expand labour export programs while ensuring the dignity and safety of migrant workers.
The committee urged the ministry to fast-track reforms and collaborate closely with relevant agencies to safeguard the rights of Kenyans working abroad.