Kenya boosts job creation and labour reforms, says Mwadime

PS Labour Shadrack Mwadime received by ILO Director General, Gilbert Houngbo in Geneva on June 6, 2025 [Mike Kihaki, Standard]

Kenya has reaffirmed its commitment to creating decent and inclusive jobs as a cornerstone of national development, with a strong emphasis on youth empowerment, micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), and green growth.
Speaking at the ongoing International Labour Organisation (ILO) Conference in Geneva, Labour Principal Secretary Shadrack Mwadime stated that the government is dedicated to a comprehensive approach to stimulating employment across various sectors.
“The government has taken deliberate steps to stimulate employment through infrastructure investment, MSME incentives, and wider access to credit through the Hustler Fund,” explained Mwadime.
A significant achievement is the Affordable Housing Programme, which has so far created over 244,232 jobs in the construction sector, serving as a key pillar in combating youth unemployment.
Mwadime responded to the ILO's opening report, themed “Jobs, Rights and Growth: Reinforcing the Connection.”
He noted that the report aligns with Kenya’s aspirations for inclusive and sustainable economic growth through productive employment and social justice.
To tackle rising youth unemployment and address skills mismatches, the Principal Secretary announced that Kenya has strengthened its labour migration governance by implementing a Labour Migration Management Strategy.
“We have established bilateral labour agreements, enhanced pre-departure training, and expanded reintegration services. These reforms have strengthened the protection and productivity of Kenyan migrant workers,” he elaborated.
Mwadime also highlighted progress in labour laws, stating that Kenya has accelerated the domestication of ratified ILO conventions through amendments to core labour legislation.
 “The Employment Act, Labour Institutions Act, and Occupational Safety and Health Act have been revised to reflect emerging priorities for decent work,” he noted.
Additionally, he mentioned that Kenya has modernised its Labour Inspection and Compliance Framework through digitisation and capacity building, leading to broader coverage and improved adherence in both formal and informal sectors.
“We’ve recorded improvements in occupational health and safety, social security registration, and the elimination of child labour,” the PS said.