Kenya Plans Diaspora Safe Houses in Middle East and Southeast Asia Following Trafficking Rescues

The Kenyan government is intensifying its crackdown on human trafficking networks following the repatriation of dozens of citizens from exploitative job scams in Southeast Asia. 

On Saturday, Principal Secretary for Diaspora Affairs Roseline Njogu issued a stern warning at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), coinciding with the arrival of 31 rescued Kenyans. This follows a prior repatriation of 47 individuals, confirming the growing threat of fraudulent overseas employment opportunities. Njogu affirms the government's commitment to dismantling trafficking operations through a multi-agency task force. 

The task force will focus on intelligence gathering, law enforcement, and international collaboration to address the root causes of human trafficking. Authorities are urging young Kenyans to verify job placements through the National Employment Authority (NEA) to avoid falling prey to deceptive schemes. Beyond rescue operations, Njogu advocated for a sustainable approach to safeguarding Kenyans abroad during a session with the National Assembly Committee on Defence, Intelligence, and Foreign Affairs in Naivasha. 

She emphasized the need for establishing safe houses in high-risk areas such as Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the UAE, and parts of Southeast Asia. These shelters, common in countries like Uganda, would provide critical support for citizens facing abuse, displacement, or financial hardship. Njogu also proposed the urgent creation of a Diaspora Welfare Fund to aid stranded Kenyans and facilitate emergency evacuations. She argues that the lack of such infrastructure limits the government's ability to respond effectively to crises. 

The fund could be financed through a combination of government allocations and diaspora remittances, ensuring that Kenyan missions abroad are equipped to provide real-time assistance. Experts suggest that safe houses and structured welfare programs could enhance security for Kenyans abroad and reflect a citizen-focused foreign policy.