President William Ruto has defended the government’s labour migration programme, saying reforms introduced over the past three years have enabled more than 540,000 Kenyans to secure jobs abroad under structured and transparent systems.

Speaking during a meeting with representatives of the Kenyan diaspora from 40 countries at State House, Nairobi on May 29 2026, the President praised Kenyans working abroad, describing them as dependable ambassadors of the country.

He said the government had streamlined labour migration processes by eliminating fraudulent recruitment practices and strengthening oversight to protect Kenyan workers seeking opportunities overseas.

Diaspora engagement and welfare support

Ruto noted that the administration has also introduced measures aimed at strengthening links between the diaspora and home through housing and healthcare initiatives.

The President said Kenyans abroad can now access homes through the Boma Yangu portal under the Affordable Housing Programme while also supporting their families through payments to the Social Health Authority.

The remarks come as the government intensifies diplomatic engagements to secure safer and more structured labour mobility agreements with foreign countries.

Earlier this month, the State Department for Diaspora Affairs, led by Principal Secretary Roseline Njogu, held talks with Saudi Arabian Ambassador Saad bin Abdullah Alnofaia on labour mobility partnerships, worker protection and consular support for Kenyans in the Kingdom.

Bilateral labour agreements

Kenya has also expanded labour migration discussions with European countries.

In January 2026, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula held talks with Germany’s Parliamentary Foreign Affairs Committee on implementing the Comprehensive Migration and Mobility Partnership Agreement signed in 2024.

The agreement seeks to facilitate skilled Kenyan labour migration to Germany while addressing labour shortages in the European country.

Wetang’ula said parliamentary diplomacy would play a critical role in supporting migration policies that benefit both countries.

Focus on diplomacy and resilience

At the same time, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi joined staff of the State Department for Foreign Affairs during their Annual Staff Wellness Day themed “Building Resilience for Effective Diplomacy.”

Mudavadi commended Principal Secretary Dr. Sing’oei Korir for initiatives promoting mental, physical and financial wellness among diplomatic staff, saying an effective foreign service workforce is important in advancing Kenya’s labour migration agenda and diaspora welfare.

The government maintains that labour migration remains a key pillar in boosting remittances, expanding employment opportunities and strengthening economic growth while ensuring the safety and welfare of Kenyan workers abroad