The Kenyan government is intensifying efforts to combat unemployment through targeted job creation strategies and international labour partnerships, Labour and Skills Development Principal Secretary Shadrack Mwadime has said.
Speaking at the International Labour Organization (ILO) conference in Geneva, PS Mwadime underscored the government’s deliberate steps to stimulate employment across all sectors. He noted that creating decent jobs remains central to the government’s development agenda, especially in the face of global economic uncertainty, climate disruptions, and rising inequality.
“The government of Kenya is firmly committed to promoting employment opportunities both locally and abroad,” said Mwadime, highlighting initiatives underway to enhance workforce readiness and strengthen the labour market.
He further lauded the ILO for its steadfast focus on decent work and social justice despite shifting global dynamics, noting that international cooperation was key to safeguarding workers’ rights and advancing inclusive economic growth.
In a major development, the Ministry of Labour has announced a new wave of overseas job opportunities for Kenyans in Jersey Island, a British Crown Dependency located in the Channel Islands. The job openings span key sectors such as agriculture, hospitality, and healthcare.
The ministry said applicants must meet specific skill and qualification criteria tailored to the needs of the Jersey labour market. It also emphasized that the entire recruitment process will be conducted transparently and regulated to protect Kenyan workers from exploitation.
Detailed application guidelines will be released in the coming days, with the government urging interested candidates to prepare the necessary documents early.
This initiative is part of a broader bilateral agreement between Kenya and Jersey Island, aimed at establishing safe, legal, and structured labour migration pathways. The agreement is expected to not only ease unemployment pressure at home but also ensure Kenyan workers abroad enjoy dignified working conditions.
As the country continues to expand job opportunities locally and internationally, the government is also investing in skills development to better align the workforce with evolving global demands. With these latest moves, Kenya reaffirms its commitment to decent work, economic empowerment, and global labour cooperation.