Labour migration agreement between Kenya and Germany nears completion

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Nairobi, Kenya (ILO News)-The 2nd round of technical negotiations for the Migration and Mobility Partnership Agreement between the Republic of Kenya and the Federal Republic of Germany was successfully concluded in Nairobi, Kenya, on May 14-15, 2024. With the technical and financial support of the International Labour Organization (ILO), Better Regional Migration Management Programme funded by the UK FCDO , this significant event marked a crucial step in the collaborative efforts to enhance labour migration governance and optimise the benefits of labour migration for both countries. 

Hosted by Kenya's Ministry of Labour and Social Protection, State Department for Labour and Skills Development, the negotiations followed the first round held in Berlin, Germany, in February 2024. The discussions signal the commitment made by H.E. President William Ruto and H.E. Chancellor Olaf Scholz in May 2023, emphasising the importance of skilled labour migration between the two nations. The Kenyan delegation comprised representatives from key ministries, including Labour, Immigration, Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, Technical and Vocational Training, and the Office of the Attorney General. Similarly, the German delegation included their counterparts, ensuring a comprehensive and multi-faceted dialogue. 

The meeting aimed to finalise the provisions of the agreement, which had been under review following the initial discussions in Berlin. Both countries had taken time for internal consultations to address specific provisions and ensure mutual benefits. During the two-day negotiation in Nairobi, the joint technical committee engaged in detailed deliberations to reconcile any outstanding issues and refine the terms of the agreement.  

This agreement is designed to address the labour market needs of both countries, providing a structured framework for the migration of skilled workers. It includes mechanisms to protect the rights and welfare of Kenyan migrant workers in Germany, ensuring safe, orderly, and productive migration. The negotiations also focused on establishing the next steps according to the agreed roadmap, moving towards the formal signing planned to take place in September 2024 and implementation of the agreement. The technical committee discussed timelines and responsibilities, ensuring that both parties were aligned on the process for bringing the agreement into force. 

The successful conclusion of these negotiations reflects the strong cooperation between Kenya and Germany. It underscores the commitment of both countries to enhancing bilateral relations through strategic partnerships in labour migration. The agreement is expected to significantly increase access to decent foreign jobs for Kenyan workers in Germany, contribute to their socio-economic development through remittances and skill transfers, and address labour shortages in Germany.