Malindi, Kilifi County – Labour Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua has defended the credibility of the government’s labour mobility programme, insisting that the majority of Kenyans travelling abroad are securing lucrative job opportunities.
Speaking during the NYOTA Capital disbursement event in Malindi on Thursday, Mutua sought to address mounting concerns over Kenyans being duped with fake overseas job offers, with some reportedly ending up in the Russia-Ukraine war.
Call for Due Diligence
Mutua attributed the risks faced by job seekers to a lack of proper due diligence when pursuing overseas employment.
“Some young men have gone abroad, and they are now fighting for foreign nations, and others are misbehaving because they were not informed on how to take care of themselves. I urge the parents that if your child is going for an employment opportunity abroad, do your due diligence to make sure they won’t become a victim,” he said.
He urged Kenyans to verify opportunities through the National Employment Authority (NEA), which regulates and accredits recruitment agencies, enforces ethical standards, conducts pre-departure training, and safeguards the welfare of Kenyan workers abroad.
Mutua emphasized that the NEA website lists all accredited companies offering global employment opportunities, warning that any job not listed should be treated as fraudulent. He also provided a hotline (08002222223) for inquiries.
Public Criticism
Despite his assurances, Mutua’s remarks drew sharp criticism from members of the public, who accused the government of failing to protect citizens from exploitation.
Online reactions included:
- “Many young men did not go abroad to fight for foreign nations. Investigations show some were lured by promises of work and later coerced into military roles. This points to economic desperation and weak protections, not misbehaviour.”
- “Blaming the victims of your deployment is quite disgusting.”
- “CS Alfred Mutua, just like most of his colleagues in cabinet, treats hard-working Kenyans who pay their salary with contempt.”
Reports of Recruitment into Russian Military
Mutua’s defence comes amid reports that over 200 Kenyans have joined the Russian military since the start of the Russia-Ukraine conflict in 2022.
Foreign Affairs CS Musalia Mudavadi confirmed that the government continues to receive distress inquiries from affected families.
“Reports suggest that over two hundred Kenyans may have joined the Russian military, with some being former members of Kenya’s disciplined services,” Mudavadi said in November 2025.
Intelligence reports indicate that victims were lured by rogue agencies promising up to Ksh.2.3 million ($18,000) to cover visas, travel, and accommodation. Those rescued later revealed they had been misled into dangerous work, including assembling drones, handling chemicals, and painting, often without training or protective gear.
Conclusion
While the government maintains that its labour mobility programme is credible and beneficial, emerging cases of exploitation and alleged recruitment into foreign conflicts continue to cast a shadow over the initiative. The controversy has piled pressure on authorities to tighten oversight, enforce regulations, and strengthen protections for Kenyans seeking opportunities abroad.
