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Labour and Social Protection Cabinet Secretary (CS) Alfred Mutua has bashed a section of Kenyans chastising the government for seeking job opportunities overseas in the recent Kazi Majuu program.

In a statement, Mutua condemned those against the program saying the opportunities presents a stepping stone for Kenya to develop itself through the skills gained in developed countries. He also stated that the program bridges the gap of unexployment in the country and progresses economically by presenting better ideas.

The vocal CS, while highlighting on the importance of the program, further reiterated that the initiative will connect skilled citizens to better opportunities abroad.

“Wale naysayers wanapiga mdomo wakisema hii haiwezekani, nataka kuwaambia inawezekana and this will happen, wacha wale wanataka kuenda waende wewe funga mdomo , kaa hapo na pesa yako. Those complaining about people going overseas wako kazini na hawajui wewe uko nyumbani umesota.There is this talk about brain drain versus brain dead, when people leave the country to go overseas they are not going to stay there, they are actually gaining skills when you go to Germany or England for example to be a technician, you are gaining skills that we don’t have in our country, or even better yet you gain a better waay of doing things,” the CS said.

Mutua’s sentiments come after his recent announcement that 5,931 Kenyans had secured job opportunities abroad through a government-led recruitment exercise. 

“I am pleased to announce that 5,931 Kenyans have secured job opportunities abroad since the launch of the government’s national recruitment exercise just ten days ago. This initiative is a testament to our commitment to linking skilled Kenyans with overseas employment opportunities as we address the pressing issue of unemployment in our country,” the CS announced on November 27, 2024.

He also recently shared an update revealing that the documentation and contracts for candidates who successfully secured jobs have been finalized and shared a list of those who had qualified.

“The processing of documents and contracts for candidates hired during the Qatar recruitment drive is progressing well, and departures are approaching. For candidates who have not signed their offer letters. They should visit the notified location on Monday, December 2, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Their training will be scheduled after they complete the signing and medical processes,” Mutua stated.