In a major development for Kenya’s skilled workforce, the government has announced the securing of over 15,000 job opportunities for youth in Canada and other international markets. This marks a significant strategic pivot from traditional destinations in the Middle East to new horizons in Europe.
Principal Secretary for Labour and Skills Development, Shadrack Mwadime, unveiled the news in Taita Taveta, detailing a plan that directly addresses both the unemployment crisis and the quest for better working conditions abroad.
Key Opportunities at a Glance:
-5,000 Openings for Paramedics
-10,000 Openings for Construction Workers
-Additional Opportunities in the Agricultural Sector for seasonal work (up to 6 months).
Crucially, PS Mwadime highlighted the attractive remuneration, with some positions offering earnings of up to KSh 10,000 per day.
Strategic Shift for Better Prospects
Acknowledging the challenges faced by Kenyan workers in some Arab nations, the government is consciously redirecting its labour migration focus.
“We are rethinking our strategy to explore better destinations in Europe,” Mwadime stated.
He emphasized that quality overseas employment is a key pillar in the fight against youth unemployment, linking economic empowerment to true freedom.
Your Action Plan: How to Access These Opportunities
For vocational trainees, skilled artisans, and graduates, this announcement is a direct call to action. Here is your pathway, as outlined by the government:
1. Get Your Passport Ready: This is the non-negotiable first step. The government has streamlined processing via a green channel reducing wait times to about two weeks for labour migration purposes. PS Mwadime’s urgent message: “Youth should acquire passports immediately.”
2. No Fees, No Frauds: For these European opportunities, applicants only need a ,,valid passport and a medical report. “No commissions are required,” the PS assured. Beware of scammers; the official Nyota Program does not ask for registration fees.
3. Skill Up & Register: Visit the Kenya Labour Market Information System (KLMIS) website.
– Identify available overseas job openings.
– Use the Career Navigator tool to match your skills with market needs.
– Register your skills on the platform to be visible for opportunities.
4. Bridge Skill Gaps: If your skills need sharpening or certification, pursue relevant short-term training programs at polytechnics and Vocational Training Centres (VTCs). “Even a six-month course gives you a certificate,” Mwadime noted.
5. Explore All Avenues: Don’t limit yourself. Also check the over 400,000 job openings listed on the National Employment Authority (NEA) website for local and other international roles.
For those with hands-on experience but lacking formal papers, the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) initiative under the Nyota Program can help you obtain a verifiable certificate, a critical tool for securing these overseas contracts.
A Word of Caution
Labour Market Research Analyst Becky Onguko from KLMIS issued a strong warning against fraudulent agents impersonating government programs.
“Some youths have lost up to Sh150,000. The matter is with the DCI,” she said. Always use official channels: KLMIS and NEA websites.
What This Means for You
This initiative represents a tangible pipeline for vocational graduates. The emphasis on paramedics, construction, and agriculture aligns perfectly with skills nurtured in our vocational training ecosystems. It’s a clear signal: acquire a certified skill, get your documents in order, and the world is opening up.
The government is building the bridge. It is now up to every ambitious youth to take the necessary steps forward.