Government launches Nationwide recruitment drive for Kenyans seeking jobs abroad

Kisumu, Kenya

Sunday, 17 November, 2024 

McCreadie Andias 

In a bold move to create job opportunities for Kenyans abroad, the government has launched a nationwide recruitment drive that aims to cover all 47 counties. 

The announcement was made by the Cabinet Secretary for Labour and Social Services, Dr. Alfred Mutua, in Kisumu on Sunday. This program builds on the recent successful recruitment drive for jobs in Qatar, which attracted thousands of Kenyans.

“During the first phase of the Qatar initiative, 3,247 Kenyans were selected out of the 8,000 available positions. I am pleased to report that nearly 1,500 of them have already received their offer letters and are finalizing their travel documentation,” Dr. Mutua said. He noted that the remaining 5,000 slots would soon be filled, as the Qatari company responsible for the positions is set to return for additional recruitment.

The nationwide drive, which is set to commence next Wednesday, represents a broader effort to facilitate employment abroad, and will be spearheaded in collaboration with key partners including the National Employment Authority (NEA), the National Industrial Training Authority (NITA), and licensed recruitment agencies. Activities will be conducted at county headquarters and TVET institutions, ensuring accessibility across the country.

Dr. Mutua emphasized the government's efforts to make the process as streamlined as possible for job seekers. “To further streamline the process, officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) will be on-site to facilitate fingerprinting for certificates of good conduct, while immigration officials will assist with preliminary passport applications,” he explained. The goal is to ensure candidates have minimal barriers to accessing these life-changing opportunities.

Job seekers are encouraged to prepare by gathering essential documentation, including ID cards and relevant qualifications. Applying for certificates of good conduct through the eCitizen platform and completing passport application requirements in advance is highly advised.

Dr. Mutua underscored the broader vision behind the initiative. “This initiative reflects our government’s commitment, under the leadership of H.E. President Dr. William Ruto, to creating employment opportunities and enhancing labour mobility,” he stated. He expressed confidence that the drive would position Kenyans as competitive professionals in the global job market, thereby transforming lives and bolstering livelihoods.

As part of the rollout plan, Dr. Mutua and a team of recruitment agencies will be visiting every county to maximize outreach and ensure as many Kenyans as possible benefit from the initiative.

This effort marks a significant step in the government's push to empower citizens through meaningful employment, signaling a brighter economic future for thousands of Kenyans eager to make their mark abroad.