The Kenyan government has released details of companies and individuals linked to widespread fraud within the overseas jobs and labour mobility programme.
In a notice dated 20th January 2025, the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection has updated on the progress of the multi-agency task force on travel agencies and labour fraud.
“On July 15, 2025, six months ago, the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection, together with the Attorney General’s Office, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), and the Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP), formed a task force to listen to grievances and investigate fraud in the labour mobility programme,” read the notice.
The move marks a major effort by the government to protect Kenyans seeking employment abroad.
Travel Agencies linked to Job Fraud
Of the named 390 cases, 116 cases involve travel agencies.
Travel agencies named in connection with overseas jobs and labour mobility fraud include:
- Zian Travel Agency
- Freemart Agency
- Vintmark Agency
- Zawadi Jobs Abroad Limited
- Briven International
- Taushi Tours and Travel
Investigations have revealed that some individuals and companies accused of fraud were not registered with the National Employment Authority (NEA) or the Business Registration Service (BRS), an offence under Kenyan law.
The government has stated that only NEA-registered agencies are authorized to conduct labour mobility services.
Cases Before Court and Conservatory Orders
According to the official update, a total of 390 labour fraud cases are currently under investigation after complaints were lodged by Kenyans.
These include individuals and operators affiliated with travel agencies accused of obtaining money by false pretenses.
The task force has also noted that some companies have obtained conservatory court orders temporarily restraining prosecution, pending the determination of legal challenges.
The Ministry of Labour has reported that investigations are ongoing and that such orders do not amount to clearance of wrongdoing.
The DCI is also probing the use of Youth Fund monies issued to companies involved in labour mobility services.
Two individuals have been summoned in connection with the alleged misappropriation of Ksh 18 million, and the public is urged to assist the police with information on their whereabouts.
Government Issues Advisory to Overseas Job Seekers
Alongside naming suspects, the government of Kenya has issued advisory on Kenyans seeking employment abroad including:
- Avoid unscrupulous and unregistered agents. Verify details on the NEA website for fees and available jobs.
- Travel only on an employment visa, not a tourist visa.
- Do not pay fees through personal numbers; use official pay bills or bank accounts and never pay in cash.
- Do not make any payment without a written agreement and official receipt.
- Parents are advised not to allow their children to travel for work without a valid employment visa, as they risk trafficking.
Only agents registered by NEA are authorized to conduct labour mobility services
The ministry has also called on Kenyans to report any suspicious individuals or agencies offering job mobility.
Despite the fraud cases, the Ministry has reported progress in labour mobility, noting that the fraud cases have reduced.
According to the ministry, 538,000 Kenyans have travelled abroad for work since 2022, with daily departures ranging between 450 and 500 people, and the government aims to reach 1 million in the next 12 months.
