ASMAK Backs Kenya–Saudi Labour Deal, Says Thousands of Jobs Await Kenyan Workers

The Association of Skilled Migrant Agencies of Kenya (ASMAK) has welcomed the renewed commitment by Kenya and Saudi Arabia to strengthen bilateral labour cooperation, describing the move as a major boost for safe and regulated overseas employment opportunities for Kenyan workers.

ASMAK Chairman Francis Nduhiu Wahome praised the latest engagements between the Kenyan government and Saudi authorities, saying the strengthened partnership signals a new chapter in labour migration that will benefit thousands of skilled and semi-skilled Kenyans seeking employment abroad.

Wahome commended Cabinet Secretary for Labour Dr. Alfred Mutua for his proactive efforts in deepening cooperation with the Saudi Arabian Government, noting that the renewed collaboration will reinforce confidence in Kenya's labour mobility programme while opening more employment opportunities for qualified workers.

According to Wahome, the strengthened ties demonstrate Kenya's growing recognition as a dependable source of skilled, disciplined and professional workers capable of meeting international labour market demands.

He noted that enhanced cooperation between the two countries will not only expand access to overseas jobs but also improve the welfare and protection of Kenyan migrant workers through stronger safeguards and adherence to ethical recruitment standards.

"The continued dialogue between Kenya and Saudi Arabia is a positive step towards ensuring labour migration remains safe, orderly and beneficial to both countries. It also strengthens worker protection while promoting transparent and ethical recruitment practices," Wahome said.

He added that increased labour opportunities abroad will have a significant economic impact by creating employment for thousands of Kenyans and boosting household incomes through remittances, which continue to play a vital role in supporting the country's economy.

Wahome reaffirmed ASMAK's commitment to working closely with the government and other stakeholders to promote safe, transparent and mutually beneficial labour migration. He said the association remains dedicated to ensuring recruitment agencies uphold the highest professional standards while safeguarding the rights and welfare of Kenyan workers.

The renewed Kenya-Saudi Arabia labour cooperation is expected to further strengthen bilateral relations and expand employment opportunities for Kenyans, particularly in sectors experiencing high demand for skilled and semi-skilled workers. It also aligns with the government's broader agenda of promoting overseas employment as one of the strategies for addressing youth unemployment and enhancing economic growth through increased foreign remittances.