The National Assembly’s Departmental Committee on Labour has raised the alarm over substantial budgetary cuts to the State Department for Labour and Skills Development, warning that the reductions could affect vital programs and hinder the government’s efforts to tackle unemployment.
During a meeting held to consider the 2025/26 Budget Estimates, Committee Vice Chairman Hon. Fabian Muli expressed concerns over low budget allocation to key programs.
Budgetary reductions in some key projects pose a serious threat to the department’s capacity to implement essential programs and effectively fulfill its mandate.
The state department led by Principal Secretary, Shadrack Mwadime, cited inadequate funding for its core programs and a significant staffing shortfall as some of the major challenges currently affecting operations.
One of the key programs hit by the budget shortfall is the Labour Migration and Export initiative, which seeks to provide employment opportunities for Kenyans abroad.
Mwadime described the initiative as a “game changer” in bridging the country’s unemployment gap.
“There are many opportunities outside there that we seek to get hold of,” said PS Mwadime. “Kenyans will get an opportunity to work abroad and can come back to invest in our country.”
The committee acknowledged the concerns raised and reiterated the strategic importance of labour and skills development in spurring employment and economic growth.
Members stressed the need for adequate support and resources to ensure that the department can deliver on its mandate, particularly in light of the rising unemployment levels among Kenyan youth.
The Committee Committed to advocate for increased funding to safeguard these programs, which are crucial to the country’s economic growth.
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