Imagine being lured by the promise of a better life abroad, only to fall victim to a fraudulent job agency. Sadly, this has been the reality for countless Kenyans seeking opportunities overseas. But here's where it gets controversial: President William Ruto has taken a bold step by deregistering over 600 rogue labor recruitment agencies, a move aimed at protecting Kenyan workers from exploitation. This announcement came during his engagement with the Kenyan diaspora community in Doha, Qatar, on November 5, 2025, on the sidelines of the United Nations Social Development Summit.
In a bid to ensure safety, dignity, and fairness, the government is overhauling the labor migration sector. And this is the part most people miss: Ruto emphasized that labor deployment is now restricted to countries with formal bilateral agreements with Kenya. This shift is designed to safeguard workers’ rights and protect them from abuse in foreign lands. The President also revealed that his administration is negotiating new labor agreements to secure skilled and professional job opportunities abroad, which could be a game-changer for Kenyan youth seeking better-paying jobs and advanced skills.
But it doesn’t stop there. The government has streamlined diaspora services, slashing passport processing times for Kenyans with confirmed job offers from three months to just three days. Here’s the kicker: Ruto’s administration is also working to make it cheaper and easier for diaspora Kenyans to send money home, while exploring investment avenues like the proposed diaspora bond. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to empower Kenyans abroad to thrive and contribute to national development.
Ruto’s commitment to the diaspora community is no empty promise. During his election campaign, he vowed to strengthen ties with Kenyans abroad, and he’s delivered by establishing the State Department for Diaspora Affairs. Led by Principal Secretary Roseline Njogu, the department has been instrumental in addressing consular issues and supporting Kenyans in distress, as seen in recent interventions in Lebanon and other countries.
Now, here’s a thought-provoking question: While these reforms are commendable, are they enough to address the systemic issues in labor migration, or do we need more radical changes? Ruto’s assurance that the government is ready to further improve services is a step in the right direction, but the real test lies in implementation. As he told Kenyans in Qatar, their contributions to the economy are invaluable, and the government is keen on making their engagement with Kenya more meaningful. But what do you think? Are these measures sufficient, or is there more to be done? Let’s spark a conversation in the comments!
