Kenya has deployed 200 security personnel to Qatar as part of its labour migration programme. This initiative, launched last year, aims to create more employment opportunities abroad for Kenyans.
Labour and Social Protection Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua oversaw the departure of the recruits, who will undergo training before joining Qatar’s security forces. He emphasized that the selection process prioritized Arabic proficiency, a clean criminal record, and a solid educational background.
This deployment adds to the 75,000 Kenyan migrant workers already employed in Qatar, including 7,000 who secured jobs this year. Mutua assured that more Kenyans would continue traveling for work in Qatar, following schedules set by employers.
The announcement follows a meeting between Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and Qatari Ambassador Mohamed Al-Enazi, where discussions focused on expanding job opportunities for Kenyans, including positions for Kiswahili teachers.
The Kenyan government has been actively promoting its labour export programme, with a goal of sending one million workers abroad annually. A recent recruitment drive across six counties attracted nearly 6,000 applicants in just a week, underscoring strong interest in overseas employment.