Githunguri Member of Parliament Gathoni Wamuchomba has raised concerns over a recent wave of Kenyan recruitment by an unnamed Qatari company, questioning the government’s stance on promoting overseas labor.
Speaking on a Citizen TV show, she expressed dismay at the current approach of sending thousands of educated Kenyans abroad for menial jobs, such as those offered in Qatar. She argued that the government should prioritize creating conducive conditions for economic growth and employment opportunities within Kenya.
Wamuchomba emphasized that existing systems and policies must be revamped to address high unemployment, arguing that the government is failing its citizens by focusing on labor exports.
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She questioned, “Are we being fair to Kenyans if the only solution for our unemployed is to put them on planes to do low-skilled work abroad when many of them have substantial education?”
Further, Wamuchomba highlighted concerns over the grooming standards and conduct of young job applicants in formal job interviews, noting that she prefers hiring candidates who meet specific professional appearance standards.
She suggested that parents should help prepare their children with solid grooming habits, which she believes are crucial for making a positive first impression in formal employment settings.
Wamuchomba’s comments come after Labour Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua announced that a sizeable Qatari company had opened 8,000 job slots for Kenyans, covering various positions, including nursing, waitressing, child care, driving, plumbing, painting, storekeeping, and welding.
The announcement drew a crowd of over 15,000 Kenyans at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC), nearly doubling the available positions and underscoring the intense competition for jobs.
