Kenyan President Ruto has inked a deal to send thousands of skilled workers, including nurses and other professionals, to Saudi Arabia, to booster employment. This landmark agreement, following the recent commitment to dispatch 1,500 farm workers to Israel, marks a significant expansion in Kenya’s labor exportation endeavors.
President Ruto emphasized the evolution of Kenya’s labor export strategy, stating, “Previously, we only sent domestic workers, but now we can export skilled labor to Saudi Arabia and other countries.” The deal involves an initial deployment of 2,500 workers, underscoring the nation’s commitment to diversifying its exported expertise.
The skilled workers, earning a monthly wage of Ksh 200,000 ($1,300), will contribute to Kenya’s foreign exchange reserves. This move aligns with President Ruto’s broader vision of leveraging the global demand for Kenyan labor to ease domestic unemployment and enhance foreign remittances.
The November Saudi-African Summit laid the groundwork for this agreement, showcasing the diplomatic efforts invested in strengthening economic ties between Kenya and Saudi Arabia. President Ruto’s visit to Germany further exemplifies his commitment to securing employment opportunities for Kenyans, with negotiations aiming to secure 200,000 jobs for his countrymen.
Kenya’s labor ministry, in a bid to ensure the welfare of workers, announced that the 1,500 farm workers destined for Israel will receive a “guaranteed net (monthly) income” of $1,500. President Ruto’s multifaceted approach to job creation abroad aligns with his belief in the global recognition of Kenyans for their hard work and dedication.
As Kenya grapples with an unemployment crisis, President Ruto’s proactive measures seek not only to provide job opportunities but also to strengthen the country’s foreign exchange reserves. The influx of remittances from Kenyan workers abroad is anticipated to alleviate the pressure on the national currency, which has faced challenges in recent months.
- Tags: employment, Kenya, Saudi Arabia
