Past incidents of job seekers being conned by rogue recruitment agencies have contributed to the hesitancy of some Kenyans regarding the government’s aggressive overseas job placement initiatives, Labour Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua has said.

Speaking at Baringo National Polytechnic during a recruitment drive, Mutua reassured participants that the government is committed to fairness and transparency, warning that any agency engaging in fraudulent practices would face the full force of the law.

Mutua, who recently issued a public apology to young people who may have fallen victim to such scams, urged them to shift from a “resist mentality” and embrace government programmes designed to improve their lives.

During the Baringo event, some job seekers were interviewed online directly by overseas employers, with many receiving immediate offers. The CS emphasised that the government’s would expedite document processing for successful candidates but reminded job seekers of their responsibility to complete necessary applications and meet job requirements.

“Some opportunities may require applicants to cover costs such as medical examinations and air tickets,” Mutua noted. “To improve one’s circumstances, sacrifices must be made.”

Mutua was with Baringo County Commissioner Solomon Kutwa, senior officials from the Ministry of Labour, and representatives from the National Employment Authority led by director general Edith Okoki, as well as the National Industrial Training Authority.

This recruitment drive, part of the government’s broader strategy to address unemployment, is a step in restoring confidence in overseas job placements and ensuring fair opportunities for Kenyan youth.