Kenyan Embassy in Kuwait Clarifies Reports on Domestic Worker Recruitment Ban

The Embassy of Kenya in Kuwait has clarified reports suggesting that Kuwait recently imposed a new ban on the recruitment of Kenyan domestic workers.

In a statement dated June 11, 2026, the Embassy said some reports had portrayed Kenya’s inclusion among countries from which domestic worker recruitment is currently not being undertaken as a fresh restriction imposed by Kuwaiti authorities.

The Embassy added that the government voluntarily suspended the deployment of domestic workers to Kuwait about ten years ago and that the position remains in effect.

“Kenya has not been newly banned from sending domestic workers to Kuwait. The Government of Kenya voluntarily suspended the deployment of domestic workers to Kuwait approximately ten years ago, and that position remains in effect,” the statement said.

Kenya Clarifies There Is No New Ban on Domestic Workers in Kuwait

The Embassy further clarified that the recent communication issued by Kuwaiti authorities does not amount to a new restriction targeting the country or Kenyan workers.

It also highlighted that the communication reflects the existing operational and regulatory framework governing the recruitment of domestic workers in Kuwait and should be viewed as a continuation of the long-standing status quo.

Additionally, the Embassy disclosed that Kenya and Kuwait are currently engaged in consultations aimed at developing a bilateral framework for the domestic labour sector.

According to the statement, the discussions seek to establish mutually agreed mechanisms, procedures and safeguards that could support future cooperation in the recruitment and deployment of domestic workers.

“The Government and the State of Kuwait are engaged in ongoing consultations regarding a bilateral framework for the domestic labour sector. The objective of these discussions is to establish mutually agreed mechanisms, procedures and safeguards that would support future cooperation in this area,” read part of the statement.

Also Read: Kenya Among 26 Countries Banned from Domestic Worker Recruitment by Kuwait

Restriction Applies Only to Domestic Workers

The Embassy noted that the current position only affects the domestic worker category, adding that all other categories of workers remain eligible to seek employment opportunities in Kuwait in accordance with the laws and regulations of both countries.

It also described Kuwait as an important and growing destination for Kenyan migrant labour, revealing that increasing numbers of Kenyans have secured jobs in various sectors in recent years.

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Furthermore, the government attributed the growth to the strong reputation Kenyan workers have built in the Kuwaiti labour market through their professionalism, competence, and work ethic.

The Embassy urged the public not to interpret recent reports as evidence of a new ban on workers or a reduction in employment opportunities in Kuwait.

In addition, it reaffirmed its commitment to working with authorities in both countries to promote safe, orderly, and mutually beneficial labour mobility arrangements for people seeking opportunities abroad.

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A photo showing people coming back from the Gulf. Photo/ FILE.