The Kenyan government has raised concerns over the increasing number of foreign job scams that continue to exploit unsuspecting Kenyans. Speaking during a press briefing on Monday, April 7, Roseline Njogu, the Principal Secretary for the State Department for Diaspora Affairs, urged the public to remain vigilant as these fraudulent schemes continue to escalate.

In recent months, many Kenyans have fallen victim to scammers who promise lucrative job opportunities abroad, only for them to end up in exploitative and inhumane conditions. According to Njogu, despite the government’s consistent advisories warning against job offers in Thailand, many Kenyans are still being lured into fraudulent schemes. Some are duped into believing they are traveling for legitimate employment, only to find themselves trapped in scam compounds in Myanmar, where they are forced into criminal activities, including commercial sex work and labor in conditions resembling modern-day slavery.

“Despite our consistent advisories indicating that there are no job opportunities in Thailand, Kenyans are still being duped into believing they’re headed there for work, only to find themselves trapped in scam compounds in Myanmar,” Njogu said.

The situation has led to an alarming rise in human trafficking, with organized syndicates targeting vulnerable job-seekers. These syndicates charge victims hefty sums for non-existent job placements, exploiting their desperation to secure work abroad.

In response, the government has set up a verification desk at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) to help confirm that travelers under labor mobility arrangements are in possession of valid work visas and are genuinely headed for legitimate employment. This initiative aims to curb human trafficking and prevent more Kenyans from falling prey to these exploitative schemes.

Additionally, the government is actively pursuing investigations into these trafficking syndicates, with several cases already under investigation. Njogu emphasized that it is crucial for Kenyans seeking overseas employment to ensure they have the correct documentation, particularly work permits. Many of the victims who ended up in exploitative conditions had left Kenya on tourist or visitor visas, instead of the proper work permits that would have guaranteed them protection abroad.

The government is urging all job-seekers to be cautious when pursuing employment opportunities overseas. It’s essential to verify the legitimacy of job offers and ensure that they are fully compliant with the necessary legal and immigration requirements. As the situation continues to unfold, the government remains committed to dismantling these trafficking networks and protecting Kenyan citizens from exploitation abroad.

This growing issue highlights the importance of raising awareness and empowering job-seekers with the necessary knowledge to navigate the complex landscape of international employment opportunities. By staying vigilant and informed, Kenyans can avoid falling victim to these fraudulent schemes and ensure their safety and well-being when seeking opportunities abroad.