Kenya outlines comprehensive diaspora protection strategy at world summit in Doha

 

The Government of Kenya has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the rights and welfare of its citizens working abroad, particularly in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations, through a comprehensive, multi-layered strategy that integrates policy, diplomacy, and social protection mechanisms.

Speaking at the Second World Summit on Social Development in Doha, Qatar, Principal Secretary for Diaspora Affairs Roseline K. Njogu, CBS, highlighted Kenya’s ongoing reforms and innovations in labour migration management during a high-level panel discussion on “Extending Social Protection to Migrant Workers and their Families in the South-East Asia–Gulf Corridor.”

The session brought together key representatives from labour-sending and host nations — including Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Oman — to discuss shared challenges and sustainable solutions for migrant worker protection.

PS Njogu outlined Kenya’s cornerstone initiatives, citing robust policy frameworks such as the Kenya Diaspora Policy 2024, which provides a structured and ethical approach to labour migration. The policy emphasizes accountability, transparency, and the protection of Kenyan workers abroad.

She further underscored Kenya’s proactive diplomatic efforts through the negotiation and signing of Bilateral Labour Agreements (BLAs) with host countries, aimed at embedding stronger, enforceable safeguards for migrant workers.

“Kenya is pushing for enhanced Bilateral Labour Agreements that not only create employment opportunities but also guarantee dignity, safety, and justice for every Kenyan working abroad,” said Njogu.

To reinforce this commitment, the government has established in-country protection mechanisms in partnership with Kenyan embassies and diaspora associations. These systems offer immediate assistance and advocacy for workers in distress across GCC nations.

The PS also emphasized prevention through preparedness, highlighting Kenya’s pre-departure training programmes designed to educate migrant workers on their rights, employment terms, and cultural adaptation before leaving the country.

Njogu, a global advocate for diaspora social benefits portability, reiterated Kenya’s pursuit of frameworks that ensure migrant workers can access social benefits — including pensions and healthcare — even when they relocate across borders. She called for broader regional collaboration through organizations such as the African Union (AU) and the East African Community (EAC), both of which are working toward a regional diaspora policy.

Kenya is also deepening its partnerships with international bodies, including the United Nations (UN) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM), to align national initiatives with global standards on migrant welfare and protection.

The panel served as a platform to exchange best practices and spotlight shared challenges affecting migrant communities across Asia and Africa — with an emphasis on building resilient, rights-based labour mobility systems.

“Protecting migrant workers requires collective action — from governments, international partners, and the private sector alike,” Njogu concluded. “Our citizens abroad are not just workers; they are ambassadors of Kenya’s global promise.”