By Jeff Kizzilah
Mutua’s Ministry Cries Broke While Promising Jobs Abroad—MPs Question Where the Money Goe
MINISTRY SEEKS MORE FUNDING TO EXPAND ACCESS TO GLOBAL LABOUR MARKETS
The Ministry of Labour and Social Protection has appealed for increased funding to support its push to secure more employment opportunities for Kenyans in international labour markets.
Appearing before the National Assembly Committee on Labour, Cabinet Secretary Dr. Alfred Mutua stated that the ministry is currently underfunded, limiting its ability to effectively conduct labour market surveys and negotiate Bilateral Labour Agreements (BLAs).
Dr. Mutua emphasized that BLAs remain a critical pathway for unlocking structured employment opportunities abroad while addressing Kenya’s rising unemployment. He noted that remittances from Kenyans working overseas continue to play a vital role in the economy, amounting to approximately USD 5.136 billion.
However, the session also exposed growing concerns among legislators over illegal recruitment practices targeting Kenyans seeking jobs abroad. Members of the committee pressed the ministry to explain gaps in enforcement and oversight.
In response, the CS attributed the challenges to inadequate funding, which he said has hindered monitoring operations and public awareness campaigns aimed at protecting job seekers from exploitation.
The ministry is now seeking enhanced budgetary support to strengthen oversight, improve worker protection mechanisms, and facilitate officers responsible for enforcing labour migration regulations.
Despite the funding constraints, the ministry has earmarked resources under the Supplementary Estimates I for the 2025/2026 financial year to fast-track negotiations on five new BLAs with countries including Canada, Kuwait, Jordan, Oman, and Ireland.
Additionally, the ministry is prioritizing a review of key labour laws and policies—many enacted in 2007—to align them with the provisions of the Constitution of Kenya 2010.
The appearance before the committee forms part of the ongoing review of Supplementary Estimates I for the 2025/2026 financial year, with other agencies including the Public Service Commission and the Salaries and Remuneration Commission also presenting their budget proposals.
