Labour Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua has announced plans for a nationwide initiative aimed at easing the challenges faced by Kenyans pursuing employment opportunities overseas. Speaking before the Senate on Tuesday, May 6, Mutua addressed growing concerns over delays and unmet promises in the government-facilitated recruitment process.
Mutua clarified that while the government does not offer jobs abroad, it plays a facilitating role through approved recruitment agencies. He cited several reasons why qualified job seekers remained in Kenya, including lack of travel funds, failed medical tests, missing documentation, and last-minute changes of heart.
To tackle financial barriers, Mutua revealed that 130 job seekers recently benefited from the Youth Fund, following his negotiations with the Senate. Additionally, a pilot programme under the Uwezo Fund is nearing completion, targeting support for another 300 Kenyans.
“I approached the President to see how we can utilise the Uwezo Fund,” Mutua said. “We are at the tail end of another 300 youth being able to benefit from a pilot programme to take them out of this country.”
Mutua also pledged to launch a new national programme to reach every village, saying, “With enough resources and the funds people are paying back, we can take people from every village and provide hope to many of our innocent and poor young men and women.”
The CS urged patience among job seekers and reaffirmed their right to request refunds in case of prolonged delays or withdrawal from the program.