Germany has signed a labour migration agreement with Kenya, allowing 250,000 skilled and semi-skilled Kenyan workers to migrate and address workforce shortages in Europe’s largest economy.
The deal, signed by German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Kenyan President William Ruto in Berlin, aims to facilitate controlled migration and alleviate unemployment challenges in Kenya while filling Germany’s labour gaps.
In a pilot phase, five Kenyan bus drivers have already arrived in Flensburg, northern Germany, as part of the broader program.
The agreement is part of Germany’s strategy to manage immigration and labour shortages, offering long-term visas for Kenyans seeking employment or vocational training.
The deal also simplifies the repatriation process for Kenyans residing in Germany without legal status. This comes amid growing anti-immigration sentiment in Germany, fueled by the rise of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party.
Germany has taken in large numbers of asylum seekers in recent years, including over one million during the Syrian refugee crisis and 1.2 million Ukrainians since Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
Under this new labour pact, Germany will ease immigration laws for Kenyan workers, including IT specialists who may not have formal qualifications but possess essential skills.
Additionally, Kenyan doctors, nurses, and teachers are expected to participate, raising concerns about a potential brain drain.
Critics argue that sending professionals abroad may worsen shortages in Kenya’s own workforce, particularly in the healthcare sector.
However, Kenyan officials see the agreement as a response to global labour market demands. Roseline Njogu, a senior foreign affairs official, explained that with Kenya’s growing youth population and the challenge of creating domestic jobs, the deal provides much-needed opportunities abroad.
The International Labour Organisation (ILO) praised the agreement, noting that it would enhance access to decent foreign jobs for Kenyan workers and ensure their rights and welfare are protected.