Germany is actively seeking skilled workers from Kenya to help address its labour shortages in various sectors. The two nations are currently negotiating a migration agreement that would facilitate easier relocation of Kenyan workers to Germany. This move comes as Germany faces an acute need for foreign workers, not just in highly skilled fields like IT and engineering but also in vocations like bus driving, automotive repair, and elderly care.
The potential migration deal with Kenya follows a similar agreement Germany struck with Morocco, marking its second such partnership in Africa. These migration partnerships aim to create more legal pathways for skilled labour workers to migrate to Germany while ensuring their home countries cooperate in taking back citizens who become obligated to leave Germany.
Kenya’s education system enjoys a good reputation in Africa, and its high school graduates are considered relatively well-educated and highly motivated. However, many struggle to find decent employment opportunities in their home country due to a weak economy. The migration to Germany could present a win-win situation for both nations.
German officials, including Chancellor Olaf Scholz during his state visit to Nairobi last year, have highlighted the vast job opportunities available for Kenyan workers in Germany. While the figures quoted by Kenyan President William Ruto about 250,000 jobs were exaggerated, the hype surrounding the migration prospects has been palpable.
Kenyan institutions like the Goethe Institute and Mount Kenya University have been inundated with inquiries and enrollment for German language courses and vocational training programs tailored for potential migrants. However, the process is riddled with bureaucratic hurdles, from recognition of qualifications to obtaining visas, which can take months to resolve.
German companies, such as transportation firms in northern Germany, have already begun pilot projects to recruit Kenyan bus drivers, albeit facing significant challenges. The candidates must undergo extensive training, including German language proficiency exams, and have their licenses and qualifications recognized, which can be a lengthy and costly process.
While recent legal changes in Germany aim to simplify the recognition of qualifications and remove barriers for certain occupations, the bureaucracy remains complex and often decentralized, with municipalities exercising autonomy in decision-making.
Experts warn of the need to manage expectations on both sides and caution against the proliferation of unscrupulous agencies exploiting the migration frenzy by demanding exorbitant fees from hopeful Kenyan candidates.
As Germany seeks to address its labour shortages through skilled migration from Kenya, navigating the bureaucratic maze and ensuring a smooth transition for the workers remains a critical challenge for the success of this initiative.