Labour and Social Protection Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua has called out job seekers who ignored the dress code policy during interviews for jobs in Qatar.
Speaking during an interview on Sunday, October 27, the CS said a number of people showed up for the interview dressing in hoodies and sneakers.
"The first day was a big joke. People showed up for the interviews dressed in hoodies, sneakers and t-shirts. You need to look neat and presentable. It is a process for Kenyans to also know that looking for a job is a job," he said.
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The CS encouraged Kenyans not to be afraid to work in the Middle East saying, "Do not be afraid to work. I have worked in the Middle East myself. It is a great opportunity for young people."
Thousands of Kenyans participated in job interviews overseen by Mutua at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre and the Kabete National Polytechnic.
This recruitment drive, part of an initiative to place 8,000 Kenyans in Qatar's hospitality, service, construction, and technical sectors, follows negotiations led by President William Ruto.
Mutua highlighted that applicants would not incur any interview fees, and successful candidates would have their travel expenses covered by the Qatar firm.
He emphasized the government's commitment to facilitating skilled labor exports, stating, "We want to ensure that Kenyans with the right skills can capitalize on international opportunities".
This initiative aims to expand beyond unskilled labor and includes plans for a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to amend the 2012 labor agreement, providing a clearer pathway for skilled Kenyans to work in Qatar.
Additionally, a visa center will be established in Nairobi to streamline visa applications and support Kenyans transitioning to employment in Qatar.
