Over 5,000 Kenyans Repatriated as MPs Call for Crackdown on Rogue Overseas Recruiters

Nairobi, Kenya – The Principal Secretary for Diaspora Affairs has revealed that the government has repatriated 5,232 distressed Kenyan citizens from 19 countries over the past year, as cases of abuse, exploitation, and trafficking abroad continue to rise sharply.

Appearing before the National Assembly’s Labour and Social Welfare Committee, the PS painted a grim picture of the conditions many migrant workers—particularly women in the Middle East—face. Most of those brought back were victims of contract violations, unsafe working conditions, and in some cases, outright human trafficking.

“These Kenyans left the country in search of better livelihoods, only to find themselves trapped in inhumane situations,” the PS said. “We are working closely with host governments and civil society to bring them home safely.”

Lawmakers Demand Accountability

Members of Parliament responded with frustration, demanding more aggressive regulation and policing of private recruitment agencies—some of which continue to operate despite repeated allegations of fraud and negligence.

“We cannot allow rogue recruiters to traffic our youth under the guise of job opportunities,” one MP asserted. “There must be clear legal action and a public blacklist of offenders.”

Legislators are now calling for stricter vetting of recruitment firms, a comprehensive digital database of Kenyan migrant workers, and enhanced bilateral agreements to ensure safer employment conditions abroad.

What’s at Stake

Remittances from Kenyans living and working abroad remain a vital lifeline for the economy—contributing over KES 600 billion annually. But behind those numbers lies a troubling trend: the human cost of poorly regulated migration.

The government has pledged to establish safe migration centers, increase consular support, and invest in pre-departure training for outbound workers.

Yet for thousands of families who’ve watched their loved ones return in distress—or in body bags—the reforms may feel long overdue.