Kenyans seeking to work abroad have been urged to only deal with registered recruitment agencies to ensure their safety.
Speaking during a diaspora job recruitment drive at Sigalagala National Polytechnic, the National Domestic chair of the Association of Skilled Migrant Agencies of Kenya (ASMAK), Josphine Muriuki said registered recruitment agencies place job seekers to the right employers who have been vetted.
She noted that they also work with the government to ensure that in case of a distress call from an employee abroad, they quickly intervene and initiate the rescue process adding that those who encounter problems are individuals who use rogue recruitment agencies.
Muriuki urged Kenyans to seek legit agencies either through the Ministry of Labour and Social protection website, or, visit any National Polytechnic, where they will be assisted and linked up to the right agencies.
The Chair added that they currently accept job seekers who are able to read and write for jobs abroad, who can understand contract forms and any other required documentation before they sign up.
Muriuki said the agencies also ensure all job seekers who are recruited have the necessary skills and qualifications for the jobs they are applying for and those who fall short of the skills are referred to training institutions to polish up, before they can be offered the opportunities.
She urged Kenyans who are unemployed to utilize the opportunities, thanking the government for partnering with recruitment agencies to open up space for youth to get jobs.
The Labor Migration Training Coordinator at the National Industrial Training Authority (NITA), Japheth Sakwa said they have ensured that only accredited recruitment agencies participate in the recruitment exercise.
The Agencies must be recognized and approved by both the National Employment Authority(NEA) and NITA.
He said that NITA ensures that job seekers are given enough time and opportunity to express themselves, noting that those who feel dissatisfied are given a second chance.
Sakwa also urged job seekers who have skills and lack certificates to register with NITA for recognition of prior learning through which they will be awarded certificates to help them secure jobs.
by Moses Wekesa
