- These developed countries generally provide better healthcare services and infrastructure.
- Migrants may benefit from improved access to medical care, leading to better health outcomes and an overall higher quality of life.
Image: FILE
Data released by the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics in April 2023 revealed that almost three million Kenyans are unemployed, with youths under the age of 29 being the hardest hit. The pressing need for employment is evident, considering that about 16 per cent of Kenyans live below the international poverty line.
Sluggish corporate earnings in Kenya have led to job losses, and the economy is not growing as fast as needed to accommodate the numerous job seekers. While the economy grew at 7.5 per cent in 2021, this rate dropped to 5.6 per cent in 2022, with a projected growth of only 5.8 per cent in 2023. Notably, 1.5 million jobless Kenyans fall within the 20-29 age bracket. The Kenyan government has been actively working to secure job opportunities for jobless Kenyans abroad.
"I have agreed with Bore (Labour CS Florence Bore) that we will sign bilateral labour agreements so that we export labour from Kenya. We want to export 3,000 to 5,000 Kenyans every week so that they can work abroad to sustain their livelihoods and bring money back," President Ruto said on November 19.
The countries the government has negotiated with include Germany, France, Saudi Arabia, Israel, among others.
Taking Israel as an example, a farm worker could earn about Sh230,000 and be on a three-year renewable contract. Kenyans working there would also be paid in dollars, and this is not a hoax, as Malawi has already successfully secured 221 jobs for its citizens in Israel.
From the perspective of a jobless Kenyan youth, perhaps a Form 4 graduate or college certificate holder, unmarried and with numerous needs but energetic and in good health, what would stop one from trying such an opportunity? Nothing really comes without trying, and the late Bishop Desmond Tutu did say that hope is being able to see that there is light despite all the darkness.
Social media is a great invention with many advantages, chiefly information sharing. However, misinformation is a major challenge on Kenyan social media. Being a country perennially in campaign mode, it is challenging for youths to find peaceful, constructive engagement and debate on social media because winning political arguments often becomes the overriding approach.
Skepticism regarding government activities and initiatives has grown, and it is something young people must be careful about because it can negatively define their outlook towards the future.
The benefits of a youth from a Third World country finding a job in a First World country are numerous. The possibility of higher income potential should be encouraging because developed nations have stronger economies and higher wages compared to many developing countries. Young workers may find increased earning potential, allowing them to improve their standard of living and that of their relatives back home.
First World nations typically have a more diverse and advanced job market, offering a broader range of career opportunities across various industries. This diversity enables individuals to explore and pursue careers aligned with their skills and interests.
These are aspects that the government will want to enlighten Kenyans heading to these countries about so that they can optimise their potentials while there. This must be part of the reason that President Ruto has said that the National Youth Service will be an anchor institution for all deployment training programmes for Kenyans seeking to work abroad.
First World nations often have well-established education systems with high-quality institutions. Migrating young workers may have the opportunity to access world-class education, enhancing their skills and qualifications.
It is important to consider the affordability of education and possibilities of skills development in the nations one may consider immigrating to. Kenyans are ambitious people who like to turn around their lives with opportunities that come their way.
These developed countries generally provide better healthcare services and infrastructure. Migrants may benefit from improved access to medical care, leading to better health outcomes and an overall higher quality of life.
While our country is on track towards great development, we have to accept that embracing foreign job opportunities that enhance our society is also patriotism. It is possible that the Kenya Kwanza regime will absorb three million Kenyans in one year, for instance, while the number of college graduates and school leavers keeps increasing.
Migration to a First World nation can result in an improved standard of living, with better housing, transportation, and overall living conditions. This can contribute to a more comfortable and fulfilling lifestyle. Kenyans love a good life; we all want to be able to afford better quality things. Over a period of say, six years, it is possible for one to turn around their lives completely for the better, and then return and build Kenya, for instance, via business.
Living in the developed nation exposes young workers to diverse cultures, perspectives and experiences. This cultural exposure can broaden their worldview, foster personal growth, and contribute to a more inclusive mindset. The countries often provide a conducive environment for professional development. Young workers can benefit from networking opportunities, mentorship programmes and exposure to cutting-edge technologies, contributing to their career growth.
Many of these developed nations also have robust legal systems and law enforcement, providing a safer and more secure living environment. This can be particularly appealing for young workers seeking a stable and secure place to live.
Access to advanced technology is often more prevalent in the First World nations. Young workers may benefit from exposure to the latest innovations, which can enhance their skills and competitiveness in the global job market.
Living in these nations can open up global opportunities. Many of these countries have strong international connections, facilitating travel, collaborations and participation in global initiatives. Despite these advantages, it's important to acknowledge that migration also comes with challenges, such as cultural adjustment, legal requirements, and potential social issues.
Additionally, the specific benefits will depend on factors like individual qualifications, skills and the host country's policies. The government needs to help tackle some of these challenges and also ensure Kenyans are protected so that horrible stories such as those emanating from Saudi Arabia are averted. Kenyans must be treated with dignity as we treat those who live in our country.
Kenyan youths must also embrace online opportunities for self-development. Recently, the President’s Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service encouraged Kenyan youths: "I urge young people not to give up because they haven't gotten the physical jobs but to use their phones, laptops, tablets to work, to be national employees, work for multinational companies abroad and earn money," he said as he launched the Jitume App in Machakos county.
The writer is a political commentator