Kenyan Workers Face Abuse Abroad While Government Profits

Kenyan workers, primarily women, are facing severe abuse abroad, particularly in Saudi Arabia, where reports indicate they have been victims of violence, exploitation, and even death. According to the New York Times, these workers often have their passports confiscated, wages withheld, and endure physical abuse for minor infractions. In response to these dire conditions, Kenyan President William Ruto's government has not only failed to protect these citizens but has actively sought to increase the number of workers sent abroad, prioritizing profit over safety. Ruto has instituted policies that favor employment agencies, allowing them to operate with reduced training requirements and limited oversight.

In a striking shift from Kenya's historical exports of coffee, remittances from workers abroad now represent a significant portion of the national economy, surpassing traditional agricultural exports. The government has set ambitious targets to send a million Kenyans abroad annually, despite warnings from human rights groups about the risks involved. The New York Times further reveals that the labor export industry has become a lucrative venture for many in the Kenyan government, with politicians establishing their own staffing companies to benefit from the influx of labor exports.

Training programs for these workers have been reduced to just 14 days, down from a previous requirement of 26 days, aimed at minimizing costs for staffing companies. This decision has been made despite documented inadequacies in training that leave workers ill-prepared for the challenges they face abroad. The Kenyan government is accused of catering to the interests of employment agencies, with many government officials allegedly holding stakes in these companies. The report indicates that about ten percent of the labor export firms are linked to political figures, including the solicitor general and the government spokesman, raising concerns about conflicts of interest and systemic corruption.

As Ruto's administration continues to emphasize labor exports as a solution to domestic economic troubles, the welfare of the workers remains precarious. The government’s approach to labor export has been characterised by a 'low cost, high volume' strategy, effectively positioning Kenyan workers as among the cheapest in the market. This has led to their mistreatment in foreign employment settings, where they are often paid significantly less than workers from other countries, such as the Philippines.

Despite the dangers that accompany overseas employment, many Kenyans see this as a viable path to financial stability, given the lack of opportunities at home. Protests have erupted in Kenya against the government’s handling of economic issues, including joblessness and corruption, highlighting the growing discontent among the populace. As more stories emerge about the suffering of Kenyan workers abroad, the government's complicity and profit-driven motives raise serious ethical questions about the exploitation of its citizens in pursuit of financial gain.