The Central Organization of Trade Unions (Cotu-K) has urged all Kenyan workers abroad to register with Kenyan Embassies, High Commissions, Consulates, or Permanent Missions in their countries of residence or employment.
In a statement on Thursday, Cotu Secretary General Francis Atwoli emphasized that as Kenya increasingly positions itself as a labour-exporting nation, proper documentation of its workforce abroad is crucial for protection, support, and accountability.
“It is a matter of importance that our workers abroad are properly documented and recognised through official government channels so that in the event of any challenges, emergencies or disputes, the Kenyan government can offer timely protection, assistance, and accountability,” Atwoli said.
The Cotu chief also cautioned Kenyan activists against exporting their activism beyond the country’s borders, noting that such activities can expose them to foreign legal consequences and jeopardize the welfare and reputation of fellow Kenyan workers abroad.
Atwoli highlighted a worrying trend over the past six months, where some Kenyan activists leave the country to pursue activism in foreign nations, creating problems for the broader workforce.
“For instance, on May 26, 2025, I addressed the press and warned that Kenyan workers in Tanzania faced discrimination, with some having their work permits terminated or not renewed, due to the unbecoming trend of exporting activism instead of focusing on our precious human resource,” Atwoli noted.
He stressed that blaming the Kenyan government, particularly the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, for challenges faced abroad is unfair if workers fail to document themselves through the proper channels.
“Those who stealthily sneak out of the country without following the known procedures, and without respecting the laws of other sovereign states, should not seek sympathy from innocent Kenyans. It is equally unfair to blame the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for failing to protect individuals who left without following protocols,” Atwoli said.
Atwoli also warned that any mistreatment of Kenyan workers abroad will not be tolerated and that authorities should take immediate action, including deportation, against offending foreign entities.
He reiterated Cotu’s commitment to protecting the dignity of Kenyan labour both locally and internationally and urged all workers to act as law-abiding ambassadors of Kenya, respecting foreign laws while upholding the nation’s reputation abroad.
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