Nairobi: Kenyans seeking employment abroad are being advised to engage only with registered recruitment agencies to ensure their safety. Speaking at a diaspora job recruitment drive at Sigalagala National Polytechnic, Josphine Muriuki, the National Domestic Chair of the Association of Skilled Migrant Agencies of Kenya (ASMAK), emphasized the importance of dealing with vetted employers through legitimate channels.

According to Kenya News Agency, Muriuki highlighted the collaborative efforts between registered agencies and the government, which include prompt intervention and rescue processes in case of distress calls from employees overseas. She pointed out that individuals who face challenges often do so after engaging with rogue recruitment agencies.

Muriuki encouraged Kenyans to verify agencies via the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection’s website or visit any National Polytechnic for assistance in connecting with approved agencies. She reiterated that job seekers should possess the necessary skills and literacy to understand and agree to contract terms before signing up for jobs abroad.

Further, Muriuki mentioned that agencies ensure applicants meet job requirements, with those lacking skills being directed to training institutions for further development. She expressed gratitude to the government for its partnership with recruitment agencies, which has increased job opportunities for the youth.

Japheth Sakwa, the Labor Migration Training Coordinator at the National Industrial Training Authority (NITA), affirmed that only accredited recruitment agencies, recognized by the National Employment Authority (NEA) and NITA, participate in the recruitment process. Sakwa noted that NITA provides job seekers ample opportunity to express themselves and offers a second chance to those dissatisfied.

He also advised skilled job seekers without formal certification to register with NITA for recognition of prior learning, which allows them to obtain certificates and improve their job prospects.