Ms Aida Awel delivered a Public Lecture on Labour Migration at UoN
On 23 September, the University of Nairobi hosted a public lecture on Labour Migration Trends in the East & Horn of Africa, delivered by Ms. Aida Awel, the Chief Technical Advisor of the International Labour Organization (ILO). The lecture focused on the role of the ILO’s Better Regional Migration Management Programme in strengthening labour migration governance across the region, in line with Sustainable Development Goals 8 and 10, which promote decent work, economic growth and the reduction of inequalities respectively.
The session was officially opened by Prof. Jack Odhiambo, who emphasized the importance of continued dialogue on migration issues as labour mobility continues to shape the economic and social fabric of the world. Speaking on behalf of the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Odhiambo noted,’ For decades, the Population Studies and Research Institute (PSRI) at this university has built a long-standing reputation as a cornerstone of demographic research and a vital technical backstopping for national population policy and census activities in Kenya. Our commitment to evidence-based policy was further demonstrated when we successfully supported the integration of migration indicators into the 2019 Kenya Population and Housing Census—a pivotal step in understanding migration dynamics within our borders.’
Ms. Aida Awel began by outlining the ILO’s mandate on labour migration and its contribution to the global agenda before highlighting why migrant workers require stronger protection. She explained the labour migration cycle spanning pre-departure, migration, post-migration and reintegration, and illustrated the many challenges migrants face at each stage.
Her presentation underscored the vulnerable position of migrant workers both locally and internationally. While many leave their home countries in search of greener pastures, they often find themselves exposed to dangerous working conditions, exploitation and limited legal protection. A significant number are also unaware of their rights, both in their home countries and abroad, making them even more susceptible to abuse. Migrants are frequently among the first to suffer during times of crisis, despite the valuable contributions they make to their host countries.
Meanwhile immigration also benefits host countries by filling critical gaps in the labour market, particularly in technical and specialised fields. Migrants contribute to economic growth through their labour, taxes and services. All while also enriching society with cultural diversity and new perspectives. In many cases, they support entire sectors such as construction, domestic work and healthcare, which rely heavily on migrant workers to function effectively
Ms. Awel also discussed the broader implications of migration, pointing out both its challenges and opportunities. On the one hand, migration can result in brain drain, disrupt family structures such as grandparents raising children in the absence of parents and complicate gender roles and social integration due to cultural differences. Migrants also face personal struggles including language barriers, financial instability, racism, xenophobia and exploitation. On the other hand, migration brings significant benefits. Remittances contribute meaningfully to home-country economies, skills gained abroad can be reinvested into local development and exposure to new cultures and work environments provides enriching personal and professional experiences.
She noted that some issues are often overlooked when discussing migration. These include the full cycle of pre-immigration, immigration, post-immigration and reintegration; the difference between the minimum wage in the host country and what migrants would currently be earning, and whether that income is enough to sustain them given the cost of living in the host country; the need for proper financial stability so that migrants do not have to start from scratch when they return home; and the importance of legalities and service provision to immigrants.
Looking ahead, Ms. Awel outlined the ILO’s recommendations for a more sustainable and inclusive approach to labour migration governance. She emphasized the need for ongoing policy reforms grounded in international best practices and supported by strong partnerships. Strengthening legal pathways for migration, ensuring fair recruitment processes and improving recognition of migrant skills were highlighted as key priorities. She also pointed to Kenya’s constitutional provisions and its bilateral agreements, particularly with the EU and Gulf states, as important frameworks for protecting Kenyan workers abroad. Educational initiatives, vocational training and pre-departure orientation were recommended to better prepare migrants and reduce vulnerability to abuse. Additionally, innovative financial products, literacy programs and investment schemes could help channel remittances into ventures that stimulate local development and create jobs.
The lecture provided a powerful reminder that while migration presents both opportunities and challenges, protecting and empowering migrants is central to achieving sustainable development. Through strong policy frameworks, collaboration and forward-looking reforms, Kenya and the region can build migration systems that safeguard rights while unlocking shared benefits for home and host countries alike.
