Govt boosts labour migration with loans and training
The government has invested Sh102m to help over 450 youth secure jobs abroad.
The Kenyan government, via the Youth Enterprise Development Fund, has invested Sh102 million to help more than 450 young people access job opportunities overseas.
This funding forms part of a wider labour migration policy and is aimed at easing the financial burden of underprivileged youth by covering costs such as airfare, visa fees, and initial upkeep as they pursue employment abroad.
During a flag-off event at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for 30 young Kenyans departing for the United Arab Emirates, Labour and Skills Development Principal Secretary Shadrack Mwadime reiterated the government’s dedication to tackling unemployment, currently affecting over five million Kenyans, through strategic engagement with international labour markets.
To ease the financial burden on those pursuing overseas employment, the PS highlighted that the government is extending migration loans of up to Sh300,000 through the Youth Fund.
These funds are intended to cover pre-departure costs such as visa processing, airfare, and medical examinations.
Additionally, he noted that the government has teamed up with local banks to provide affordable loans ranging between Sh300,000 and Sh650,000, targeting young people seeking work opportunities in Gulf nations and parts of Europe.
Mwadime also mentioned that the Youth Fund is now offering soft loans of Sh185,000, repayable over a six-month period.
He underscored the government's efforts to eliminate financial hurdles that prevent many young Kenyans from taking up overseas job opportunities, stating, "The government is offering structured financial support to break down the cost barriers limiting our youth."
To safeguard against exploitation, Mwadime noted that the Ministry of Labour has initiated a sensitisation campaign and teamed up with the National Employment Authority (NEA) to publish a list of fraudulent recruitment agencies.
He also highlighted the NEA's Integrated Management System (NEA-IMS), which allows job seekers to verify agencies before committing to any engagements.
