By Grace Waithaka
Ps for the State Department of Diaspora Affairs, Roseline Njogu, has hailed the success of the Kazi Majuu program, a government initiative designed to address unemployment by connecting skilled Kenyans to global labor markets. Since its inception, the program has opened opportunities for over 180,000 Kenyans to secure jobs abroad, contributing significantly to both individual livelihoods and the national economy.
The journey started with the development of the Global Labor Market Strategy, a blueprint that aligns government efforts to address unemployment. Through collaboration between the State Departments for Diaspora Affairs and Labor and Skills Development, we structured policies and regulations to ensure the protection and facilitation of Kenyans entering the global labor market,” said Njogu.
It’s impact reflected in the growing diaspora remittances, which have become Kenya’s largest source of foreign exchange. In the last year, remittances hit USD 4.9 billion, surpassing revenue from traditional exports like tea, coffee, horticulture, and even tourism. “This growth in our diaspora translates directly to families being supported back home and our economy thriving,” Njogu noted.
While the program has achieved tremendous success, it has not been without challenges. The PS acknowledged the presence of fraudsters and con artists exploiting unsuspecting Kenyans under the guise of connecting them to overseas jobs. “These scammers use elaborate schemes, including fake job interviews and contracts, to extort money. Some victims are trafficked under false pretenses and end up in forced labor or pseudo-slavery,” she explained.
An alarming trend involves human trafficking rings targeting Kenyans with promises of lucrative jobs as IT specialists or translators. Victims are often lured with tourist visas and flown to destinations like Thailand, only to be trafficked across borders into Myanmar. There, they are held captive and forced into online scams.
“In the year 2023, we rescued over 150 Kenyans from these trafficking networks,” Njogu revealed. She issued a stark warning to job seekers: “There are no jobs in Thailand. Any advertisements suggesting otherwise are fraudulent. Kenyans must remain vigilant.”
Government remains committed to expanding job opportunities abroad while ensuring Kenyans’ safety. Njogu emphasized the importance of awareness and collaboration with law enforcement to dismantle trafficking networks and protect citizens.
“The concerns we see stem from years of inadequate support for Kenyans seeking jobs abroad. Through Kazi Majuu, we are addressing this gap by providing structured facilitation and protection,” Njogu said.
She concluded by reaffirming the government’s dedication to securing more legitimate opportunities for Kenyans while urging job seekers to verify opportunities through official channels to avoid falling victim to scams.
Kazi Majuu continues to transform lives, offering hope and opportunities to thousands of Kenyans while highlighting the need for vigilance against exploitation and fraud.