Faith Nyasuguta
In a move that has sparked widespread controversy, Kenyan President William Ruto departed for Germany on Thursday in a bid to finalize a labour migration agreement. The deal, known as the “Comprehensive Migration and Mobility Partnership,” aims to send thousands of Kenyans to fill job vacancies in Germany. While the agreement promises economic benefits, it has raised serious concerns about its long-term impact on Kenya’s workforce and development.
The agreement seeks to address Germany’s labour shortage by filling an alleged 250,000 unfilled positions with Kenyan professionals, skilled workers, and semi-skilled workers. This move is expected to reduce Kenya’s unemployment rate, which currently stands at around 6.6%. However, critics argue that this approach is a short-term fix that overlooks the need for sustainable job creation within Kenya.
Germany, with its aging population and declining birth rates, faces a severe labour shortage. The German Federal Employment Agency reported that the country needs an additional 400,000 skilled workers annually to maintain its economic stability. The influx of Kenyan workers is expected to alleviate some of this pressure, particularly in sectors such as healthcare, engineering, and information technology.
Mixed Reactions From Kenyans
The announcement of the agreement has elicited mixed reactions from Kenyans. While some see it as a golden opportunity for economic advancement, others are concerned about the potential brain drain and the long-term impact on Kenya’s development. Critics argue that the government should focus on creating job opportunities within the country rather than exporting its workforce.
Economist David Ndii has been particularly vocal in his criticism, stating, “This agreement is a short-term solution to a long-term problem. We need to invest in our own industries and create sustainable jobs for our people here in Kenya.” Ndii’s sentiments are echoed by many who fear that the migration of skilled workers could hinder Kenya’s progress in key sectors.
On the other hand, supporters of the deal argue that it provides a unique opportunity for Kenyans to gain international experience and skills that can be brought back to benefit the country. “This is a win-win situation,” said Labour Cabinet Secretary Florence Bore. “Our people will gain valuable skills and experience, and Germany will benefit from their expertise. When they return, they will contribute to the development of our nation.”
Reality for Kenyan Migrants in Germany
For the estimated 14,000 Kenyans already living in Germany, the new agreement brings both hope and apprehension. Many Kenyan migrants have faced challenges in integrating into German society, dealing with issues such as language barriers, cultural differences, and discrimination. Despite these challenges, the Kenyan diaspora in Germany has made significant contributions to both the Kenyan and German economies.
A recent study by the Migration for Development programme highlighted the positive impact of the Kenyan diaspora in Germany. The study found that Kenyan migrants are highly educated, with a significant number holding advanced degrees in fields such as engineering, medicine, and information technology. These individuals have been instrumental in bridging the skills gap in Germany, while also sending remittances back home to support their families and communities.
However, the study also revealed that many Kenyan migrants face difficulties in finding employment that matches their qualifications. “I came to Germany with high hopes, but the reality has been challenging,” said Jane Mwangi, a Kenyan nurse working in Berlin. “The language barrier is a major hurdle, and it took me a long time to get my qualifications recognized. But I am grateful for the opportunity and hope that the new agreement will make things easier for others.”
Sectors Hit Hard by Brain Drain
The brain drain phenomenon has significantly impacted several key sectors in Kenya, particularly healthcare, education, and technology. The healthcare sector has been one of the hardest hit, with a substantial number of doctors, nurses, and other medical professionals leaving the country for better opportunities abroad.
According to a study by the University of Nairobi, Kenya loses hundreds of healthcare professionals annually to countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia and now potentially Germany. This exodus has exacerbated the already critical shortage of healthcare workers in Kenya, leading to overburdened hospitals and clinics.
The education sector is also suffering, with many highly qualified teachers and university lecturers seeking employment overseas. This has led to a decline in the quality of education, as schools and universities struggle to fill the gaps left by departing educators.
The technology sector, which is crucial for Kenya’s development as a digital hub, has seen a significant outflow of skilled IT professionals. These individuals are often lured by higher salaries and better working conditions in developed countries, leaving Kenya with a shortage of talent needed to drive innovation and growth.
Government and International Support
The Kenyan government has pledged to support its citizens throughout the migration process. President Ruto assured Kenyans that measures are in place to protect their rights and welfare. “We are committed to ensuring that our people are treated with dignity and respect,” he said. “This agreement is not just about filling job vacancies; it is about creating opportunities for our people to thrive.”
The German government has also expressed its commitment to supporting Kenyan migrants. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz emphasized the importance of the partnership, stating, “This agreement is a testament to the strong ties between our two nations. We welcome Kenyan workers and will provide the necessary support to ensure their successful integration into our society.”
As the agreement nears its finalization, both governments are optimistic about its potential benefits. The Kenyan government plans to establish a dedicated office to oversee the implementation of the agreement and address any issues that may arise. This office is set to work closely with German authorities to ensure that the migration process is smooth and that the rights of Kenyan workers are upheld.
RELATED:
