The State Department for Diaspora Affairs is hosting a two-day workshop at the Acacia Premier Hotel in Kisumu, aimed at empowering prospective job seekers with information on opportunities abroad.
The event, which began on Monday, November 18, 2024, seeks to equip participants with the necessary knowledge and skills to access international employment opportunities, enhancing their prospects for work outside of Kenya.
The workshop, which draws attention to the critical role the diaspora community plays in Kenya’s economic and social development, is designed to offer practical advice and guidance on how to successfully navigate the process of seeking work abroad.
This initiative is part of the government’s broader strategy to enhance diaspora engagement and maximize the potential of Kenyans working overseas.
On the opening day of the workshop, Kisumu County’s Deputy Governor, Mathew Owili, hosted a delegation from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, led by Ambassador Hellen Gichuhi, Secretary for Welfare and Partnerships. Ambassador Gichuhi, in her remarks, emphasized the Ministry’s ongoing commitment to addressing the concerns of Kenyans living abroad.
She stressed the importance of maintaining strong connections with the diaspora, leveraging their skills, and facilitating smoother transitions for those seeking employment opportunities overseas.
“Kenya’s diaspora plays a vital role in nation-building. The remittances sent back home are a crucial source of foreign exchange, and the skills and expertise our people gain abroad are invaluable to the country,” Ambassador Gichuhi said.
She further highlighted the need for continued dialogue between the government and diaspora communities to address challenges faced by Kenyans abroad and ensure their contributions are recognized and maximized for national development.
The workshop comes at a time when the Kenyan government is intensifying its efforts to create pathways for youth and job seekers to explore global job markets.
The event also provides a platform for participants to learn about the legal, social, and economic frameworks governing employment abroad, ensuring that they are well-prepared for opportunities in different sectors across the globe.
Deputy Governor Mathew Owili reiterated Kisumu County’s support for the initiative, noting that the county has a growing number of individuals eager to explore opportunities abroad.
He emphasized the county’s commitment to enhancing the skills and qualifications of its residents to meet the demands of the international job market.
“This workshop is a significant step in empowering our people with the right information and skills to thrive in the global job market,” he said.
The partnership between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the State Department for Diaspora Affairs, and local leadership such as Kisumu County officials underscores a united effort to promote and harness the potential of the Kenyan diaspora.
As the workshop continues, it is expected that participants will gain valuable insights into securing overseas employment, while also strengthening Kenya’s relationships with its citizens living abroad.
The event aligns with Kenya’s long-term vision of creating a skilled and empowered workforce that can contribute to both local and international economies.
It is also part of ongoing efforts to support Kenyans abroad by providing them with the necessary tools and resources to succeed in their respective fields.
