A prominent labor rights lobby group has called for the immediate shutdown of rogue recruitment agencies operating in the country, citing widespread abuse, exploitation, and negligence in the overseas job placement sector.
The call comes amid growing concern over the welfare of Kenyan migrant workers, especially those deployed to the Middle East, where reports of mistreatment have continued to surface.
The lobby, which advocates for ethical labor migration practices, says the proliferation of unregulated or poorly monitored agencies has led to a surge in cases of contract substitution, non-payment of wages, inhumane working conditions, and in some instances, human trafficking.
According to the group, some agencies have been operating without proper licenses, using fraudulent documentation, or failing to adhere to legal guidelines set by the Ministry of Labour and other regulatory bodies.
There are increasing complaints from families whose loved ones have disappeared or fallen into distress abroad, particularly in domestic work placements.
The lobby insists that failure to vet and discipline these agencies undermines the credibility of the entire migration framework and leaves vulnerable workers without protection or recourse.
The group is urging the government to audit all licensed agencies and revoke the permits of those found to be complicit in rights violations.
They are also calling for the establishment of a comprehensive migrant workers’ database, stricter background checks on agency owners, and a transparent grievance redress mechanism that can be accessed both locally and abroad.
The lobby is also pushing for stronger bilateral labor agreements that prioritize worker welfare and hold host countries accountable.
It wants pre-departure training to be standardized and legally mandated for all recruits, with clear information on contract terms, destination rights, and safety procedures.
The outcry follows a recent spate of social media posts and testimonies highlighting abuses faced by Kenyan workers overseas, prompting renewed scrutiny on the role of intermediaries.
As more young Kenyans seek employment abroad due to limited opportunities at home, pressure is mounting on the government to regulate the sector more effectively.
The lobby maintains that without decisive action, the cycle of exploitation will persist, and the country risks losing credibility in its labor export programs.
Written By Ian Maleve
