Labour and Social Protection Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua faced intense criticism during the National Job Recruitment Program event at Rift Valley National Polytechnic in Nakuru County.
The uproar stemmed from what attendees described as misleading promises about free employment opportunities abroad.
The program had been marketed as offering positions in countries such as Australia, Qatar, and Germany, creating high expectations among the hundreds of youth in attendance.
However, attendees were outraged upon learning they would need to cover various expenses, including transport, medical tests, and facilitation fees.
Many youths, drawn from Nakuru and surrounding areas, had hoped for free placements but felt betrayed by the unexpected financial obligations.
This led to chaotic scenes, with many participants shouting down Mutua and expressing their frustration.
This incident highlights broader dissatisfaction with the Kenyan government’s approach to addressing unemployment.
Mutua has been a vocal advocate for exporting Kenyan labor to international markets, emphasizing opportunities in sectors such as hospitality and construction in Qatar.
However, critics argue that this strategy fails to address systemic issues in the local economy, such as high unemployment, poor job creation, and excessive taxation, which stifle growth and innovation.
The backlash is part of a larger pattern of public frustration with the government’s economic policies.
Promises of millions of new jobs and lower costs of living remain largely unfulfilled, and foreign job programs are increasingly viewed as inadequate or exploitative.
Many believe the government should focus on strengthening local industries like manufacturing and technology, which have more sustainable potential to create jobs.
The Rift Valley event further underscores challenges in government-led employment initiatives, particularly the disconnect between public expectations and actual program outcomes.
The controversy surrounding Mutua’s event adds to his growing criticism over previous governance issues and alleged mismanagement of resources during his tenure as Machakos Governor.
This latest episode amplifies calls for more transparent and effective strategies to address youth unemployment in Kenya.
Add Comment