The Central Organization of Trade Unions (Kenya), COTU (K) has called out Kenyan workers working abroad to register with Kenya’s Diplomatic Missions.

In a notice dated November 13th, COTU advised Kenyans to register with High Commissions, Consulates, Kenyan Embassies, and Permanent Missions in their respective countries of residence.

According to COTU, Kenya is one of the best nations in exporting labor; therefore, the workers abroad should be properly documented and recognized by the government.

“The Central Organization of Trade Unions (Kenya), COTU (K) wishes to strongly caution and advise all Kenyan workers who travel or are currently working abroad to always register themselves with Kenyan Embassies, High Commissions, Consulates and Permanent Missions in their respective countries of residence or employment,” read part notice.

COTU said the move will help during challenges, emergencies, disputes, among others, as the  Kenyan government can easily assist on time.

What Made COTU to Come Up With This Plan

Kenyan Workers abroad have been making distress calls to COTU over a few individuals who term themselves as activists, transitioning their activism to other countries.

COTU also said some activities by activists are not supported by foreign countries, therefore creating a risk to the welfare and reputation of other Kenyan workers.

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COTU Warned Activists

On May 26th, 2025, COTU warned Kenyan activists who invaded Tanzania that Kenyan workers in Tanzania are being discriminated against while their work permits are terminated or not renewed due to them taking their activism.

“For instance, on 26th May, 2025, I addressed the press and warned the Kenyan activists who had gone to Tanzania that Kenyan workers in Tanzania were facing a lot of discrimination, with some having their work permits terminated or not renewed, because of the unbecoming trend of exporting activism and not our precious human resource,” read part notice.

COTU Secretary General Francis Atwoli noted that Kenyans should stop blaming the government and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as those who went to neighboring countries did not follow the required procedure.

He also dismissed Kalonzo Musyoka’s remarks of blaming the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for failing to protect Kenyans in the neighboring countries.

Union Distances Itself From Kenyans Who Will not Comply With This Request

The Union said that those who sneak out of the country illegally should not seek sympathy from Kenyans.

“It is the position of COTU (K) that those who stealthily sneak out of the country without following the known procedures and protocols, and without respecting the laws and rules of other sovereign states, should not incite or seek sympathy from innocent Kenyans who had no idea when and why they left,” the Union stated.

In addition, Atwoli said it is unfair to blame the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which is not even aware of the individuals who left the country.

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How Kenya Will Treat Foreigners Causing Chaos in the Country

Kenya will also not entertain foreigners causing havoc in the country, for instance, where a Chinese national at the EPZ insulted the COTU Chairman General.

Atwoli said that the behavior is unacceptable, and such an individual should be deported immediately.

COTU reaffirms its commitment to protecting the welfare of workers both locally and internationally.

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COTU notice urging Kenyan Workers abroad to register with different Kenyan Diplomatic Missions. PHOTO/Atwoli X