The Kenyan Embassy in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has launched a relief support initiative for Kenyans affected by job losses in the Gulf state following the slowdown and closure of sectors including hospitality and related industries.
In a statement issued by the embassy, the support exercise was conducted on June 4, 2026, in Abu Dhabi under the leadership of Kenya’s Ambassador to the UAE, H.E. Kenneth Nganga, in collaboration with Kenyan diaspora leaders.
According to the embassy, the initiative involved the distribution of essential supplies to affected Kenyans to help ease immediate challenges as they work towards rebuilding their livelihoods.
“Several Kenyans living and working in the UAE have been adversely affected by job losses resulting from the slowdown and closure of sectors such as hospitality and related industries,” the embassy said.
The embassy described the initiative as part of continued efforts to support vulnerable Kenyans living abroad and highlighted the role played by diaspora leaders in coordinating the outreach and identifying affected individuals within the community.
“This humanitarian initiative reflects the strong partnership between the Embassy and the Kenyan diaspora community, demonstrating the spirit of solidarity, compassion, and mutual support that defines the Kenyan family abroad,” the statement added.
The embassy also acknowledged a personal contribution made by Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs Musalia Mudavadi and his spouse, saying the support helped make the intervention possible.
The donation was officially received by leaders of the Kenyan community in Abu Dhabi on behalf of the beneficiaries.
The UAE remains one of the major destinations for Kenyan migrant workers seeking employment opportunities, particularly in sectors such as hospitality, retail, domestic work, aviation support services, and security.
Over the years, thousands of Kenyans have moved to Gulf countries in search of employment opportunities and better incomes, with the region continuing to play a significant role in Kenya’s diaspora labour market.
The relief exercise comes amid wider discussions around the welfare and working conditions of Kenyan migrant workers in Gulf countries, especially during periods of economic slowdown and job instability.
Kenyan authorities have previously advised citizens seeking employment abroad to verify recruitment agencies through official government channels before travelling.
The State Department for Diaspora Affairs has also continued to encourage closer coordination between Kenyan missions abroad and diaspora communities in responding to welfare challenges affecting citizens living outside the country.
