Kenyan nurses and caregivers working in Saudi Arabia are reportedly facing threats of dismissal and deportation after raising concerns about poor working conditions. This revelation came to light after CNN journalist Larry Madowo shared their distressing experiences on social media.
On Friday, November 29, Madowo posted voice messages from the nurses who decried mistreatment, racism, exploitative work conditions, and the absence of rest days. The nurses accused the Kenyan government of ignoring their plight, a claim that was promptly denied by Diaspora Affairs Principal Secretary Roseline Njogu.
In a follow-up on Saturday, November 30, Madowo disclosed that the nurses are now under pressure to identify those who spoke out, with threats of deportation if they fail to comply. An audio message from a recruitment agency managing the nurses cautioned them against airing grievances publicly, insisting on following “the right channels.” The agency representative also suggested that dissatisfied workers could return to Kenya.
The nurses, sent to Saudi Arabia under a government-led employment initiative, are reportedly living in fear. Despite the accusations, PS Njogu maintained that her office had not received any formal complaints.
This development raises serious questions about the protection and rights of Kenyan workers abroad, particularly under government-sponsored employment programs.
By Kenyans