MP Mukunji criticizes gov't diaspora job plan, urges focus on local youth empowerment

Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony for the Centre of Excellence Digital ICT Hub (Jitume) at Manyatta DCC grounds, Manyatta MP Gitonga Mukunji emphasized the need to empower youth through local initiatives rather than sending them overseas, where they are vulnerable to abuse.

Mukunji warned that the government's focus on exporting labour exposes Kenyans to significant risks and reflects a failure to create adequate job opportunities at home.

He cited the distressing case of a Kenyan woman who, after leaving her child behind to seek employment abroad, was reduced to feeding puppies due to her inability to provide for her child.

"This is a direct result of the government's failure to implement safeguards for diaspora workers," Mukunji stated, urging that resources be redirected toward equipping young people with digital skills for local employment opportunities.

The MP also addressed the case of Margaret Nduta, a Kenyan woman sentenced to death in Vietnam for drug trafficking. He argued that Nduta was innocent, claiming she had been exploited by an agent who planted drugs in her bag.

"This tragedy could have been prevented if the government had clearer policies to protect Kenyans working abroad," Mukunji said, expressing regret that the country now has to appeal to a foreign government to save one of its citizens from execution.

The ICT hub launched in Manyatta is part of a broader government initiative to establish digital centres in 20 constituencies. The centre will be equipped with 200 computers, trainers, and ICT support staff, providing young people with the skills needed to access online job opportunities.

Mukunji praised the initiative, describing it as a sustainable alternative to overseas employment, which often places Kenyan workers at risk.

In addition to his concerns about labour migration, Mukunji criticized the mismanagement of the Hustler Fund, calling for the redirection of funds to more effective programs like the Uwezo Fund and Youth Fund. He argued that these initiatives would better serve marginalized groups and provide young people with meaningful economic opportunities.