Meru: A transformative moment unfolded yesterday in the heart of Meru County, at the Meru National Polytechnic. The air was thick with anticipation as hundreds of young people turned up for a two-day recruitment event that would change the trajectory of their futures.
According to Kenya News Agency, it was not just another career fair but the launch of the ‘Kazi Majuu’ Diaspora Recruitment Drive, a groundbreaking initiative spearheaded by the government’s State Department for Diaspora Affairs. The event aimed to unlock global employment opportunities for Kenya’s youth, a demographic that has faced an uphill battle against unemployment.
Principal Secretary for Diaspora Affairs, Ms. Roseline Njogu, stood before the crowd, her voice resonating with hope and conviction. ‘Our youth, who form 75 per cent of Kenya’s population, are full of potential,’ she began and went on: ‘But they are also facing a crisis of opportunities. Unemployment, compounded by rapid population growth and a mismatch between the skills taught and those needed in the workforce, continues to undermine their future.’
The launch of this recruitment drive was a direct response to this crisis according to Ms Njogu who explained the government’s strategic approach, unveiling the newly developed Global Labour Migration Strategy.
She said the initiative was not merely about finding jobs abroad but empowering young Kenyans with sustainable career pathways, blending local job creation with international employment opportunities.
The creation of the Diaspora Placement Agency (DPA) in 2023 marked a pivotal step in this mission, acting as a central hub to connect Kenyan talent with global employers. ‘This is about more than just finding a job, it’s about creating a global network for Kenyans, an opportunity to go beyond borders, to share your skills, your work ethics, and your ambition with the world,’ she expounded.
As she spoke, the youth in the crowd were visibly engaged. Their eyes brightened at the mention of the Mkulima Majuu Programme, which linked Kenyan diaspora members with agribusiness investment opportunities back home, and the Mwalimu Majuu Programme, which promised to send teachers abroad to countries with critical shortages.
These initiatives were backed by the Mhandisi Majuu Programme, placing Kenyan engineers and technicians in industries abroad, like the successful pilot project that had already placed workers in an aluminium company in Larisa, Greece.
Apart from the jobs, Ms Njogu also spoke of the extensive partnerships that would make these opportunities accessible.
With agreements in place, like the Comprehensive Migration and Mobility Partnership Agreement with Germany, Kenyans could now access work permits and residence opportunities in key sectors facing labour shortages, such as healthcare, engineering, hospitality, and construction.
Further, the newly launched German language examination centre in Kenya was poised to ease the certification process for those pursuing careers in Germany.
She emphasised that the approach was not only about employment but about prosperity. ‘Our youth have the skills to thrive in the global market,’ she said, highlighting Kenya’s rising contribution to the global economy through remittances.
Njogu said from June 2023 to June 2024, the increase in remittance inflows by 7.4 per cent had driven investments in real estate, agribusiness, and manufacturing. This, she noted, was a clear testament to the strength and resilience of Kenyans in the diaspora, whose hard work and perseverance reshaped the nation’s economic landscape.
But it was the closing remarks that resonated most with the crowd, with Ms Njogu urging the young people of Meru to take advantage of the opportunities within reach. ‘The world is wide open for you. Your skills, ambition, and determination are your tickets to success. The government stands with you; ensuring your welfare, empowerment, and prosperity as you venture into new frontiers,’ she said.
As the recruitment event continued over the next two days, young people eagerly signed up, their mindset on a future not confined by borders, but one that spanned across continents.
Through the government’s unwavering support and initiatives like Kazi Majuu, Kenya’s youth was on the brink of a new era, a time when global opportunities were not just a dream, but a tangible reality.