Wednesday, October 14, 2026(KISUMU COUNTY) __On day two of the Diaspora Mashinani initiative in Kisumu County, Amb. Hellen Gichuhi, Secretary for Diaspora Welfare and Partnerships, led a State Department for Diaspora Affairs (SDDA) team to North-East Kano Sub-county in Muhoroni Constituency for a public baraza and information-sharing session with residents.

The session provided an opportunity for the State Department to outline its mandate and sensitize residents on safe, ethical and orderly labour mobility pathways. Officials also shared practical guidance on identifying rogue recruitment agents and agencies, as well as red flags to help job seekers avoid human traffickers.

Amb. Gichuhi engaged locals on how to position themselves for the international job market, including how to prepare effectively and refine their skills to meet global employment standards.

On his part, area Assistant County Commissioner, Mr. Bonface Kirema, urged those present to remain vigilant against individuals seeking to take advantage of young people. His remarks underscored the working partnership between SDDA and National Government Administration Officers (NGAO) in taking accurate information directly to communities.

Amb. Gichuhi was accompanied by Ms. Elizabeth Mghanga, Ms. Lucy Makathimo, Ms. Jemimah Mungai, Ms. Deborah Jemutai, Ms. Nereah Wanjiku and Ms. Joy Mweu.

Sensitization at the Kisumu National Polytechnic

At the same time, another SDDA team, led by Ms. Jeniffer Wanami, Assistant Director in the Skills and Expertise Division, held a diaspora sensitization session at the Kisumu National Polytechnic. The session brought labour mobility and welfare services information directly to TVET trainees, youth and job seekers in the Lake Region.

The delegation engaged students and faculty on safe, orderly and regular labour migration pathways, highlighting legitimate international job opportunities, ethical recruitment practices and document attestation.

A panel featuring officers from SDDA and key partners, including the State Department for Immigration Services, sensitized participants on pre-departure readiness, protection of workers’ rights abroad, counter-trafficking measures, and access to mental health and psychosocial support through the SDDA Counselling and Wellness Unit.

Through the #KaziMajuu programme and the #DiasporaMashinani initiative, SDDA remains committed to empowering young Kenyans with accurate information, safeguarding their welfare and ensuring that no job seeker falls victim to fraudulent recruitment schemes while pursuing overseas employment.

Ms. Wanami was accompanied by Mr. Phillip Opwora, Ms. Velma Mudibo, Mr. Daniel Mwangi, Mr. Salaash Reson, Ms. Anne Kimani, Ms. Maureen Indiviza, Mr. Desiderius Bwire and Ms. Sally Mlingi.