Government spokesperson Isaac Mwaura has stated that over 105,000 Kenyans have obtained job opportunities abroad in countries like the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain.
The Kenyan government is advancing its labour export and economic development strategy beyond the country’s traditional destinations. Mwaura outlines ambitious plans to expand the country’s labour market through strategic bilateral negotiations and innovative employment initiatives. Negotiations are currently in the final stages with Russia, Poland, and Jordan to establish new international employment pathways for Kenyan workers. These diplomatic efforts represent a significant expansion of the nation’s traditional labour export markets.
Complementing these international negotiations, a comprehensive recruitment drive will be conducted from November 18 to December 6, 2024, spanning multiple counties and providing Kenyans with unprecedented access to global employment opportunities. The government’s employment strategy extends beyond international placements, with a robust domestic focus on job creation and skills development. To date, over one million job opportunities have been generated through various initiatives.
On affordable housing, the spokesperson lauded it for having created 160,000 employment opportunities for young Kenyans. With 124,000 housing units under construction across 75 sites in 37 counties and over 547,000 registrations on the Boma Yangu platform, the project demonstrates significant economic momentum. Innovative programs like the Climate WorX Mtaani initiative further underscore the government’s commitment to widespread employment generation.
Designed to provide jobs for 200,000 Kenyans nationwide, the program ensures at least 1,500 beneficiaries in each county, with initial implementation in Nairobi and planned progressive expansion. Digital transformation and technological empowerment are also central to the employment strategy. The government has established 274 digital hubs and is collaborating with the private sector to create 1,450 additional hubs in every ward. Through the Jitume program, nearly 490,000 Kenyans have been equipped with digital skills.
The strategic approach extends to tourism and service industries, bolstered by a free visa entry policy that has dramatically increased international visitor numbers. Projections indicate 2.5 million visitors in 2024, a significant increase from 1.4 million in 2022. By positioning Kenya as a premier destination for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE), the government is simultaneously enhancing the service industry and creating additional economic opportunities.
