Makueni, Machakos, and Kitui Dominate Overseas Jobs as MPs Summon CS Mutua
In a shocking revelation that has stirred anger across the nation, Members of Parliament have summoned Labour and Social Protection CS Alfred Mutua after it emerged that only three counties — Makueni, Machakos, and Kitui — are benefiting from overseas job placements.
The disturbing report, presented to the National Assembly’s Committee on Diaspora Affairs and Migrant Workers, revealed that just three counties out of Kenya’s 47 have secured job placements abroad. Coincidentally, these are Mutua’s home counties, raising eyebrows among lawmakers.
“We want transparency. This isn’t just about jobs. It’s about fairness for all Kenyans,” stated an agitated MP during the session.
MPs Demand Accountability
The Director General of the National Employment Authority (NEA), Edith Okoki, faced intense grilling from the committee. She confessed that NEA was sidelined in the process.
“The Authority is unable to explain the criteria used for selecting candidates who travelled abroad, as we did not participate in the recruitment,” Okoki admitted.
Even more startling was her revelation that none of the candidates were chosen through NEA’s official online platform, despite thousands of applications submitted through it.
Committee Unhappy with Recruitment Strategy
The committee chairperson, Lydia Haika, did not mince words in criticizing the recruitment approach.
“There is no need to mobilise an entire county when only ten slots are available. If the opportunities are limited, say so clearly,” she declared.
“You need to rethink your recruitment strategy,” Haika added, visibly frustrated.
The MPs now want a joint meeting with the Ministry of Labour and NEA to ensure future recruitment is fair, transparent, and inclusive.
Mutua in the Spotlight
CS Mutua, known for vigorously championing overseas job opportunities for Kenyan youth, now faces a crisis of credibility. While the government had previously launched a campaign encouraging Kenyans to apply for jobs abroad, critics say the process has been marred by secrecy and bias.
In February, the government announced that job seekers would be eligible for loans of up to Ksh300,000 to support travel and logistics. These funds would be drawn from the Youth Enterprise Development Fund (YEDF). But now, questions loom over whether the funds and job placements are equitably accessed.
“Kenyans from all corners deserve equal chances. This cannot be a preserve of just a few counties,” a vocal MP concluded.
As the nation watches closely, Kenyans await CS Mutua’s response in Parliament — one that could determine the future of government-sponsored overseas employment programs.
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Makueni, Machakos, and Kitui Dominate Overseas Jobs as MPs Summon CS Mutua
