Government Warns Kenyans Against Fake Overseas Job Offers

Diaspora Affairs Principal Secretary Roselyne Njogu has cautioned Kenyans against falling victim to fake overseas job offers that lure unsuspecting youth into foreign wars. 

Diaspora Affairs PS Roselyne Njogu speaks at Meru University, urging youth to avoid fake overseas job scams and embrace safe employment pathways.

Speaking at Meru University during the launch of a German language programme, she stressed that the government does not recruit citizens to fight in foreign armies.

Rising Cases of Fake Recruitment

Njogu revealed that her office continues to receive reports of Kenyans duped into travelling abroad for jobs, only to end up on war fronts in Russia and Ukraine.

 This warning follows similar alerts issued by KeRRA on fake recruitment scams, showing a worrying trend targeting young job seekers.

Safe Pathways for Overseas Jobs

The PS highlighted that over 530,000 Kenyans have secured legal jobs abroad in the last two and a half years. 

She urged job seekers to use licensed recruitment agents listed on the National Employment Authority (NEA) website to avoid exploitation and human trafficking.

She emphasized that the Kenya-German labour agreement signed in September 2024 is opening safe opportunities, especially for skilled youth. Language proficiency remains a key barrier, hence the German programme initiative.

Meru University’s German Language Programme

Meru University Vice-Chancellor Professor Romanus Odhiambo announced that the six-month intensive course will cover proficiency levels A1, A2, and B1. The university will serve as a regional assessment centre for trainees from Meru, Tharaka-Nithi, Isiolo, Laikipia, Embu, Marsabit, Wajir, Garissa, and Kirinyaga counties.

He noted that the programme will equip young people with internationally marketable skills, shield them from illegal recruitment networks, and enhance labour mobility. This complements other youth empowerment initiatives such as the Kibugua Stadium construction project and Chuka University career conferences.

Regional Impact on Tharaka Nithi Youth

For Tharaka Nithi County, where unemployment remains a pressing challenge, the programme offers hope. It aligns with ongoing efforts to empower youth through NYOTA project disbursements and strategic investments in agriculture.

Key Takeaway

The government is committed to protecting Kenyans from human trafficking and exploitation. With initiatives like the German language programme, young people can access safe, legal, and rewarding overseas employment opportunities while avoiding the dangers of fake recruitment scams.