The Senate has announced that it will scrutinise rogue labour export agencies and hear from the victims of the shortlisted candidates fleeced on the diaspora job programmes under the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection.
The developments come after nominated Senator Gloria Orwoba tabled a statement on the floor of the house on the shady deals behind the ring.
Additionally, Orwoba wrote to the National Employment Authority (NEA) to demand the refund of the funds that the various applicants are reported to have paid through the authority.
''I am writing to formally request for a full refund of medical fees paid by individuals who enrolled in the Bobasi Diaspora Jobs programme, a partnership between my office and the National Employment Authority that began in August 2024,'' Gloria's letter read in part.
Orwoba, in her letter, demanded that NEA explain to Kenyans the lack of transparency after she discovered that the 300 jobs initially promised did not exist despite the agency’s assurances.
The Senator put NEA on the spot for failing to provide a clear timeline on travel dates, despite being a government agency entrusted with managing employment matters.
''The failure to provide a clear timeline or assurance regarding travel dates has resulted in significant inconvenience to the shortlisted individuals who have dedicated their time and resources towards this programme,'' she stated.
"Given the circumstances, I request an immediate full refund of the amounts paid. All fees were paid directly to two paybills provided by NEA agents through mobile paybills: 247247 (Account 845577) and 880100 (Account 9095770018). Proof of payment can be provided upon request."
In response, according to a letter from the Senate signed by the Clerk of the Senate, Jeremiah Nyengenye, and seen by Kenyans.co.ke, the house will hear from the victims on Monday, April 28.
According to the Clerk, the victims will be required during the meeting to submit relevant documentation and evidence that will assist the Senate Committee on Labour and Social Welfare to rein in the rogue labour agencies.
''At its meeting held on Thursday, 17th April, 2025, the Committee considered a statement by Sen. Gloria Orwoba, MP regarding the fate of candidates shortlisted for the diaspora jobs programme under the Ministry of Labour & Social Protection and resolved to invite the affected victims to a meeting of the Committee,'' the letter from the Clerk read in part.
''In this regard, the Committee invites you to appear before the Committee on Monday, April 28, 2025, at the First Floor, Mini Chamber, County Hall, County Hall Building at 11:00 am to share your experience and submit any relevant documentation or evidence that may assist the Committee in its deliberations.''
