Fifty Kenyan youth left for Russia on Wednesday evening under a government-backed employment programme aimed at tackling rising youth unemployment.
Labour Cabinet Secretary Dr. Alfred Mutua personally saw off the first cohort at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, describing the occasion as a “life-changing milestone” for the beneficiaries.
The workers, drawn from various counties, have secured jobs at a food packing factory in Russia, where they will earn a net monthly salary of Ksh. 115,000. In addition to their earnings, they will receive free accommodation and meals, with further support from the Kenyan Embassy in Moscow.
“Many of them told me they had stayed home for years without income. This is a new lease on life,” Mutua said.
The Uwezo Fund provided loans to cover air tickets and recruitment fees, meaning the workers were not required to raise any money upfront. They will begin repaying the loan once they are fully settled and working.
Upon arrival in Moscow, the group was received by embassy officials and will be hosted by Ambassador Peter Mathuki as they transition into their new roles.
Dr. Mutua encouraged the workers to save and invest their earnings back in Kenya, urging them to deposit money monthly in local banks for their future stability.
The Cabinet Secretary also praised YUMNA, the recruitment agency involved, for maintaining ethical and transparent practices during the selection process.
The initiative, part of the government’s wider job export strategy, is expected to expand, with future batches set to follow depending on demand.
Many of the workers expressed deep gratitude to President William Ruto for the opportunity, calling it a “chance to rebuild their lives and support their families.”
The programme is expected to open up more formal overseas employment pathways for Kenyan youth in the near future.
