Kenya Advances Development of National Return and Reintegration Strategy for Migrant Workers

On 12 – 13 March 2026, Kenya’s State Department for Labour and Skills Development, in partnership with the ILO UK FCDO-funded Better Regional Migration Management (BRMM) Programme, convened a National Consultation in Nairobi to support the development of Kenya’s National Return and Reintegration Strategy for Migrant Workers. The consultation brought together 47 participants (19 Women) from government institutions, workers’ and employers’ organizations, private employment agencies, civil society organizations, and the ILO to discuss policy, institutional, and operational frameworks needed to support returning migrant workers. Discussions highlighted the importance of establishing a coordinated and rights-based reintegration system that supports migrant workers throughout the migration cycle — from pre-departure to return and reintegration. Participants explored practical measures such as skills recognition, access to employment and entrepreneurship opportunities, psychosocial support, and referral services for returning migrant workers.

The consultation also emphasized the role of county governments in delivering reintegration support services, including employment assistance, social protection, and community-based reintegration initiatives, in line with Kenya’s devolved governance structure. Participants agreed that while Kenya has strong labour migration policy foundations, a more integrated and comprehensive reintegration framework is needed to ensure returning migrant workers can transition into sustainable livelihoods. Recommendations from the consultation will inform the finalization of the National Return and Reintegration Strategy and its accompanying action plan.