The Kenyan Government, through the State Department for Diaspora Affairs, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with HOPS Labour Solutions Limited, a UK-based labour recruitment agency.
This strategic partnership between the two sides will enable Kenyan students and those who recently graduated in the agriculture and horticulture sectors to short-term employment opportunities under the United Kingdom’s Seasonal Workers Scheme (SWS).
According to the State Department for Diaspora Affairs, the agreement aims to enhance practical skills, improve career prospects, and provide international exposure to Young Kenyans while addressing labour shortages in the UK’s agricultural sector.
During the signing ceremony which happened in London, Diaspora Affairs Principal Secretary Roseline Njogu said the agreement is a historic milestone and a timely intervention for creating meaningful and ethical employment opportunities for young kenyans.
“This MoU reaffirms our commitment to equipping young Kenyans with the skills and experience needed to compete in the global market. It also strengthens our agricultural sector by enabling students to return with valuable international expertise,” Njogu stated.
The agreement ensures that Kenyan participants will not incur recruitment or placement fees, thereby protecting them from exploitation and reinforcing the government’s zero-tolerance stance on unethical labour practices. It further underscores a broader commitment to ethical recruitment and the welfare of all participants.
The Principal Secretary commended HOPS Labour Solutions, licensed by the UK’s Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), as a reputable and ethical partner in the venture.
“We are confident in HOPS’ ability to maintain high ethical standards and comply with both UK and Kenyan labour laws,” she added.
In addition to employment, the collaboration is anticipated to promote cultural and professional exchange, broadening participants’ perspectives and building networks between Kenya and the UK.
“This partnership lays the groundwork for expanded labour mobility and future cooperation across other sectors, marking the beginning of a long-term, mutually beneficial relationship,” the Principal Secretary remarked
Officials from both Kenya and the UK expressed optimism regarding the MoU’s potential to empower youth, advance agricultural development, and strengthen bilateral relations.
The latest deal represents the second significant MoU in recent days aimed at securing valuable job opportunities and international experience for Kenyan youth in the global labour market.
