Aasai

Labour Cabinet Secretary Dr. Alfred Mutua has dismissed claims that the governments overseas jobs program is a scam, asserting that hundreds of job seekers have already left the country for employment abroad. His remarks come after a week of Senate hearings, where disgruntled applicants claimed they had paid processing fees but were yet to secure the promised jobs.

Dr. Mutua blamed fraudsters outside government channels for taking advantage of desperate Kenyans. “Those conned were not part of official government processes. They were exploited by conmen preying on their desperation,” he said, urging job seekers to use only approved agents and to report cases of non-refunded fees to his office.

While acknowledging delays, Mutua urged applicants to be patient, saying the recruitment process takes time. “If you were offered a job, be patient. If you change your mind, ask for a refund. But claims that lives are ruined because of delays are exaggerated,” he added, insisting that government-approved job placements are ongoing.

According to the ministry, more than 1,000 Kenyans have already departed for countries including Iraq, Qatar, Serbia, Germany, and Russia, with another 60 set to leave this Saturday. Mutua is expected to face the Senate again next week to address concerns raised by job seekers caught in limbo.