Kazi Majuu Betrayal: Govt. Abandons Kenyans in Conflict-Torn Middle East

*By Fred Maingi

The Kazi Majuu program, once hailed as a beacon of hope for Kenya’s unemployed youth, has turned into a nightmare for over 500,000 Kenyans working in the Middle East. The government’s aggressive promotion of overseas jobs has left thousands stranded and vulnerable as conflict erupts in the region.For years, President William Ruto’s administration touted the program as a solution to Kenya’s unemployment woes. Families invested their hopes and resources, encouraged by the government’s assurances of safety and structure. But when crisis struck, the government’s response was woefully inadequate.”I sent my son to Dubai with high hopes, but now I’m left with anxiety and fear,” says Jane Mwangi, a Nairobi resident. “The government told us it’s safe, but now they’re silent. We’re left to fiddle with social media, praying for his safety.”The government’s inaction has sparked outrage, with Mtetezi, a grassroots movement, calling out the administration for betraying the public trust. “This is a glaring betrayal of the social contract,” says Francis Awino, National Convenor of Mtetezi. “Citizens were encouraged to go abroad, and now the government refuses to protect them.”As the situation worsens, Kenya’s economy teeters on the brink. Disrupted oil imports and export routes threaten billions in revenue, leaving farmers, exporters, and employees vulnerable.The government’s 72-hour ultimatum to act hangs in the balance. Will they prioritize citizens’ lives, or face public accountability? The clock is ticking.