Kenyans are increasingly learning foreign languages to secure overseas employment, with German becoming particularly popular following a Kenya-Germany labour migration agreement signed in September 2024. 

Tom Mboya University in Homa Bay County hosts a German language programme that prepares young people for opportunities in German-speaking countries.

The first cohort of 710 students from the original 1,000 who started in September 2024 are preparing for final B1-level proficiency exams before July’s end. 

“Successful students will have apprenticeship opportunities in Germany in various fields, including healthcare, ICT, nursing, banking, electrical work and plumbing,” says Irene Kwamboka, the programme’s principal. 

Humble backgrounds 

Students come from humble backgrounds and receive full sponsorships through the Widows Empowerment Programme, founded by Interior PS Raymond Omollo.

The six-month course costs about Ksh140,000, covering tuition (Ksh90,000 – Ksh100,000), exam preparation (Ksh15,000), and examination fees (Ksh25,000). 

Bill Clinton Owuor, 29, from Kisumu and previously unemployed, aims to work in Germany’s automotive sector.

“I will work hard to pass the exam and go abroad to uplift my family from poverty,” he said. 

Sheilahneilah Achieng, 21, plans to pursue medical opportunities and encourages other Homa Bay youth to join the “God-sent” programme. 

Work visas 

Students are assessed by InLegas, a German-based organisation whose B1 level certificate is required for German work visas.  

The Kenya-Germany agreement addresses German labour shortages while providing Kenyans with decent foreign employment opportunities, particularly in the healthcare, hospitality, IT, and engineering sectors.