Germany Refutes Labour Deal with Kenya for 250,000 Workers.
Germany’s Federal Ministry of Interior and Community has denied claims that the country has signed an agreement with Kenya to recruit 250,000 workers.
The clarification came after a BBC report suggested that the deal would offer employment opportunities to thousands of Kenyans seeking work in Germany.
Clarification from the German Ministry
Germany’s Interior Ministry responded by stating that the deal with Kenya does not specify any particular number of workers.
Furthermore, the ministry emphasized that applicants will undergo a thorough selection process, adhering to the strict requirements outlined in the German Skilled Immigration Act.
The ministry also mentioned that the report’s claims were incorrect, and no quotas or exact numbers were agreed upon between the two nations.
“This information is clearly false. The agreement between Germany and Kenya does not include any numbers or quotas of skilled workers who will have the opportunity to work in Germany. All applicants must fulfill the strict requirements of the German Skilled Immigration Act,” the Ministry said on X.
The misleading report had caused some public discontent in Germany, with some residents expressing concern over the potential influx of migrant workers.
Details of the Labour Agreement
The agreement between Kenya and Germany, signed on Friday, focuses on shared labour, talent, and mobility. It serves as a framework for cooperation in areas such as:
- Labour mobility
- Apprenticeships and student training
- Employment market needs
- Worker welfare
- Readmission and return of workers
President Ruto’s Stance
Kenya’s President William Ruto, speaking to Kenyans residing in Germany, assured that both countries have the potential to boost economic growth through their respective labour markets.
He expressed Kenya’s willingness to share its skilled workforce while ensuring that Kenyan workers would not face exploitation.
He also acknowledged Germany’s support and recognized the demand for labour in the German market, noting Kenya’s capacity to meet that need.
Germany’s Broader Migration Discussions
In addition to Kenya, Germany’s Interior Ministry revealed that it is in confidential negotiations with several other countries to establish migration partnerships. These countries include:
- Georgia
- Moldova
- Uzbekistan
- Kyrgyzstan
- Colombia
- Morocco
- Ghana
- The Philippines
These partnerships vary depending on the country and could involve international agreements, joint declarations, or the creation of bilateral working structures for effective cooperation.
Germany Refutes Labour Deal with Kenya for 250,000 Workers.