There are no jobs in Thailand, India or Malaysia: PS Njogu warns Kenyans over job scam crisis

According to the PS, these foreign countries face unemployment challenges due to their large population which slows down their economic growth. 

She added that scammers often masquerade job offers from these countries, which turn out to be a cover for human trafficking. 

"There are no jobs in Thailand, India or Malaysia. These countries also have unemployment challenges. If someone is recruiting you for a job in any of these places, you’re likely to be a victim of trafficking. Run! And report them to us," she said. 

The PS cautioned that such victims end up facing horrors; with some being subjected to brutal torture and sexual exploitation. 

She advised Kenyans seeking jobs abroad to have a work visa or work permit before leaving the country. She added that job-seekers should verify offers with the diaspora office to ascertain credibility.  

"Do NOT leave Kenya for work on a visitor or tourist visa! Ensure you have a work visa or work permit. Kaa chonjo! Security starts with you," she noted. 

PS Njogu also pointed out that any Kenyan who finds trouble while working abroad should contact their respective embassy office or Consulate to get assistance; citing that "even if someone steals or keeps your passport, we can facilitate you to go home!"

Her remarks come amid concerns from the public over the surge in fake recruitment agencies that give enticing offers to con Kenyans millions. 

To address this, Labour CS Alfred Mutua assured Kenyans that the government was working to weed out such rogue agencies. 

"We are also committed to addressing the issue of rogue agencies, with several currently under investigation by the DCI. In addition, we are working with banks to offer financing to agencies so they no longer need to burden job seekers," CS Mutua said in September last year.