Kenya and Germany forge landmark labour mobility partnership
In a significant development, Kenya and Germany have formalized a landmark agreement aimed at enhancing labour mobility, talent exchange, and cooperation between the two nations. The Comprehensive Labour Mobility Agreement was signed in a ceremony held at the Chancellery in Berlin on Friday, with Kenyan President William Ruto and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in attendance.
The agreement, which was signed by Kenya’s Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and German Minister for Interior and Homeland Nancy Faeser, outlines a broad framework for collaboration in various areas. It addresses key aspects such as labour mobility, apprenticeships, student training, and employment needs, as well as the welfare of employees and the readmission of workers.
The partnership will facilitate the movement of skilled workers, students, and apprentices between Kenya and Germany. It includes provisions for temporary migration for vocational education and training, seasonal work, and other gainful employment opportunities. Additionally, the agreement aims to address German labour shortages and promote the fair and ethical recruitment of skilled professionals.
Both countries have pledged to collaborate on skills development and training while ensuring fair recruitment practices. They will also work together to prevent irregular migration, human trafficking, forced labour, and the exploitation of workers. The agreement establishes a Joint Implementation Committee to oversee the execution and interpretation of the deal, comprising representatives from various ministries responsible for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, Labour, Immigration, Education, and other relevant agencies.
President Ruto, addressing the media alongside Chancellor Scholz, expressed optimism about the agreement’s potential to create job opportunities for Kenyans and strengthen bilateral relations. He emphasized Kenya’s rich pool of young, skilled, and innovative talent, urging Germany to leverage this human capital to address its labour needs.
Chancellor Scholz highlighted the mutual trust between the two nations as a cornerstone for identifying and maximizing collaborative opportunities. He underscored the agreement’s role in benefiting both countries’ citizens by addressing labour shortages and enhancing cooperation in various sectors.
Additionally, President Ruto underscored Kenya’s commitment to advancing digital innovation and technology collaboration with Germany. He pointed to opportunities for exchanging digital and research skills and fostering technological growth, reinforcing Kenya’s position as a burgeoning player in the global tech industry.
German Parliamentary Secretary Daniela Kluckert acknowledged Kenya’s rising status as a premier investment destination in Africa. She noted the growing demand for skilled workers in Germany and emphasized the importance of this collaboration in addressing the country’s labour shortages.
The signing ceremony also saw President Ruto witness the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the German city of Hamburg and Kenya’s State Department of Diaspora Affairs, further cementing the bilateral ties and collaborative efforts in various sectors.
The agreement marks a pivotal moment in Kenya-Germany relations, promising to foster greater economic and educational exchanges and contribute to the development and welfare of both nations.
