NAIROBI, Kenya — Kenya is actively pursuing enhanced vocational training opportunities in Germany, aiming to equip its workforce with skills that meet international job market demands. Principal Secretary for Labour, Shadrack Mwadime, confirmed that the bilateral labor agreements signed between Kenya and Germany in September of last year are being expedited to benefit both nations.
Mwadime, who recently led a Kenyan delegation to Germany focused on operationalizing these agreements, explained that discussions centered on increasing the mobility of skilled labor to address shortages in various German sectors.
The PS also highlighted talks concerning the expansion of vocational training opportunities for Kenyans, skills development to ensure potential employees meet international requirements, and safeguarding workers’ rights while in Germany.
“We held discussions with the German Commissioner for Labour, the lead negotiator, and agreed on the need for Germany to deploy teachers of German to our technical and vocational colleges and universities,” he stated.
Mwadime emphasized the critical role of language proficiency, adding, “The ability to speak German is critical to getting a job opportunity in the country.”
He further disclosed that the German Government has already established an agreement with Mt Kenya University for the deployment of German language teachers.
“But in our discussions, we went further and agreed that a public university should benefit from such an arrangement. Consequently, Kenyatta University has been chosen for the purpose,” Mr. Mwadime revealed.
The PS also underscored the importance of cultural understanding for prospective employees. It was therefore agreed that pre-departure training will be conducted to prepare young Kenyans for life in Germany, ensuring their social integration.
Additionally, Mwadime noted that the German job market often utilizes internships as a pathway to permanent employment. “We want to use internships as the pathway to eventual permanent jobs.
Internship opportunities pay well and interns earn a stipend that meets accommodation and living expenses,” he explained.
Mr. Mwadime characterized the meetings as successful, highlighting that the German labor market presents an ideal environment for young, educated, well-trained, and hardworking Kenyans.
“Our young people will not only earn good pay in Germany, but they will also learn modern skills through which they will eventually transfer the knowledge and expertise to Kenya,” he affirmed.
He added, “Germany has good labour laws and the minimum wage is higher than in many other countries. Our young people will thus be able to save and invest at home.”
The Kenyan delegation, which included National Employment Authority Director-General Edith Okoki, National Social Security Fund Managing Trustee David Koros, and National Industrial Training Authority acting Director-General Theresa Wasike, engaged with German Labour, Chamber of Commerce and Industry officials, and top management from over 30 companies across Berlin, Frankfurt, and Stuttgart.
These officials expressed confidence in the Kenyan workforce’s ability to meet the demands of the German job market, assuring support for seamless integration upon arrival.
The companies involved specialize in diverse fields such as manufacturing, construction, pharmaceuticals, and ICT, including prominent names like Rothenberger Werkzeuge, Strabag AG, Merck KGaA, Digital Reality, Germany GmbH, Fragomen Global, GOPA Worldwide Consultants, IHK Frankfurt am Main, and Klinik-und Rehabilitationszentrum Lippoldsberg.
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Mr. Stefan Kupper, CEO of BIWE Group, a German education and training company, commented: “We are seeking highly motivated young people who have completed vocational training of at least three years, have a good school education, a good mindset and German language competence. They should come in as skilled workers or as engineering and IT professionals.” He reiterated the importance of German language proficiency for both workforce and societal integration.
Jurgen Ratzinger, Managing Director of International Business at the Frankfurt Chamber of Commerce and Industry, acknowledged the bilateral labor agreement as a strong foundation for closer cooperation.
“Germany is in great need of skilled labour, and Kenya has a lot to offer in skilled labour. Both sides have to do their homework – Germany offers many jobs opportunities, while potential employees should be able to speak German. Language skills are therefore crucial at the preparatory phase,” he pointed out.
