Kenya Reaffirms Commitment to Secure Migration for Skilled Workers
Click to start listening
Nairobi, Dec 13 (NationPress) The Kenyan government is dedicated to establishing a secure corridor for the migration of its skilled labor force to facilitate their movement and settlement abroad, ultimately generating significant revenue for the treasury through remittances, as stated by senior officials in anticipation of International Migrants Day, recognized annually on December 18.
Julius Bitok, the principal secretary for immigration and citizen services, highlighted the crucial role of migrant workers in promoting socioeconomic development, transferring skills, and enhancing cultural richness, emphasizing that their legal protection is of utmost importance, according to reports from Xinhua news agency.
Bitok expressed the government's commitment to a migration policy that supports the well-being of local citizens as well as those from neighboring nations to foster growth and stability.
"Migration is essential to our nation's developmental agenda as it encourages talent, cultural diversity, and the exchange of skills and technology. We will guarantee safe and orderly migration," Bitok affirmed.
In preparation for this year's International Migrants Day, Kenya collaborated with the United Nations International Organization for Migration (IOM) to organize a two-kilometer walk in Nairobi, the capital, aimed at raising awareness about migrants' rights and the advantages of structured migration pathways.
Bitok mentioned that Kenya has adopted global frameworks to offer a sanctuary for migrants from the region who are fleeing climate crises, conflicts, or economic instability.
Roseline Njogu, the Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, remarked that the occasion serves as a reminder to leverage the talent, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit of migrants to drive economic growth and social revitalization in Kenya.
According to Njogu, Kenya is dedicated to granting legal status to migrants from neighboring countries and beyond, ensuring they have access to essential services such as education, healthcare, housing, and gainful employment.
Sharon Dimanche, Chief of Mission for IOM Kenya, noted that international organizations have joined forces with national governments to facilitate legal migration, aiming to fill the skills gap and promote innovation, peace, and social cohesion.
The upcoming 2024 International Migrants Day will be celebrated under the theme "Honoring the contributions of migrants and respecting their rights," which emphasizes their positive impact on the well-being of host countries.
