The Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU-K) has urged Kenyan workers abroad to register with Kenya’s diplomatic missions for their safety and protection.
In a statement dated November 13, 2025, COTU Secretary General Francis Atwoli said registration with embassies, high commissions, and consulates ensures that Kenyan workers are properly documented and can be reached in case of emergencies.
Atwoli emphasized that many Kenyans working overseas face distressing situations due to lack of proper documentation.
“Over the past six months, COTU (K) has been receiving distress calls from Kenyan workers abroad who are exploited by employers and others who are detained without their families or the government being notified,” he said.
He noted that while foreign employment offers economic opportunities, it also exposes Kenyan workers to risks, including harassment and unfair treatment.
Atwoli cited a recent case in Tanzania, where Kenyan workers in Tanzanian flower farms faced discrimination and harassment. He said some workers were arrested and deported for lacking proper documentation.
“COTU (K) has since raised the matter with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs,” he added.
The trade union leader called on the government to strengthen protection for Kenyan citizens working abroad by improving coordination between labor offices and diplomatic missions.
“Much more should be done by the Ministry of Labour and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to ensure that Kenyans working abroad are adequately protected,” Atwoli stated.
He also reminded employers and recruiting agencies to ensure workers sent overseas are registered with relevant embassies before departure.
According to Atwoli, the lack of coordination among government departments often leaves Kenyan workers vulnerable to abuse.
“In some cases, Kenyans have been detained or deported without the knowledge of our embassies,” he said.
He appealed to all Kenyan workers abroad to take responsibility for their safety by registering with Kenyan diplomatic missions.
“As Kenyans increasingly find employment opportunities abroad, it is important that they ensure they are properly documented,” he said.
Atwoli added that COTU would continue to work with government agencies to uphold the rights and dignity of Kenyan workers.
“COTU (K) shall continue working with official government structures to reaffirm our commitment to protecting Kenyan workers both locally and abroad,” he said.
The statement follows recent reports of Kenyan nationals facing mistreatment in foreign countries.
Atwoli reiterated that registering with embassies would help the government intervene quickly during emergencies such as arrests, accidents, or deaths.
He reminded workers that their safety begins with proper registration.
“COTU (K) urges all Kenyan workers abroad to ensure they are documented through registration with Kenyan embassies whenever they go,” Atwoli said.
