Sad Story Of Kenyans Struggling In Dubai “City of Dreams”

Millions of Kenyans do not know the security that lies in formal employment or any means to earn a living for their families.

That has driven hundreds of thousands of them out of the boarders of Kenya to seek employment in other parts of the world sometimes at a terrible cost to themselves.

Dubai is considered as The “City of Dreams” but the story in this video shows how Kenyans are struggling there and it is a sad story.

Video by KTN News Kenya

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Dubai, often dubbed the “City of Dreams,” has become a beacon for many Kenyans seeking better opportunities. However, beneath its glittering skyline lies a harsh reality for numerous migrant workers.

Deceptive Recruitment and Abusive Work Conditions

Many Kenyans are lured to Dubai with promises of lucrative jobs, only to find themselves trapped in exploitative situations.

Frank Wetindi, for instance, was recruited as a driver but ended up unloading planes in extreme heat for a fraction of the promised salary.

Living conditions were deplorable, with eight men sharing a single room, and any medical expenses were deducted from his meager earnings.

He describes the experience as “not good,” highlighting the deceptive practices of labor agencies.

A study by NORC at the University of Chicago revealed that nearly all Kenyan migrant workers returning from Gulf countries reported experiencing some form of labor abuse.

The majority faced physical or sexual violence, restricted freedom, coercive employment practices, and unsafe working environments.

Abandonment and Desperation

The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated the plight of many workers. Hassan, along with 98 colleagues, was abandoned by their employer and left without food or resources in a labor camp on the outskirts of Dubai.

Stranded without salaries and unable to afford return tickets, they faced severe hardships.

Fatalities and Lack of Accountability

Tragically, some cases have ended in death. Esther Mwikamba, a 26-year-old Kenyan woman working in a retail store, was found bleeding from her ears, nose, and mouth in a hotel car park.

She succumbed to her injuries after three weeks in a coma, with her family and the Kenyan community in Dubai offering support during her final days.

Systemic Challenges and Government Response

The Kenyan government’s failure to establish a comprehensive policy framework has left many migrant workers vulnerable. Reports indicate that between 100,000 and 300,000 Kenyans are employed in Gulf countries, but the government lacks accurate records and has been slow to act on their behalf.

In response to mounting concerns, the Kenyan government has initiated measures to protect its citizens abroad.

Diaspora PS Roselyn Njogu emphasized the importance of educating workers about the legalities of employment in Gulf states and the risks of leaving contracts prematurely, which can label them as “runaways” and complicate their situations.

The Need for International Advocacy

Despite these efforts, the systemic abuse of Kenyan migrant workers in Dubai and other Gulf states persists. Rights groups continue to call for stronger labor protections, the abolition of the kafala system, and greater accountability for employers and government officials.

The stories of these workers serve as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by many in pursuit of a better life.

While Dubai’s allure remains, the experiences of these individuals underscore the need for vigilance, reform, and international solidarity to ensure that the “City of Dreams” becomes a reality for all.

Sad Story Of Kenyans Struggling In Dubai “City of Dreams”