COTU: 'Exported activism' putting Kenyan migrant workers at risk

In a press release issued on Thursday, November 13, COTU emphasised that as Kenya becomes a more significant labour exporter, proper documentation is critical for worker safety and accountability.

“It is a matter of importance that our workers abroad are properly documented and recognized through official government channels,” the statement read. 

According to COTU, this registration will enable the Kenyan government to provide “timely protection, assistance, and accountability” in cases of emergencies, challenges, or disputes.

The union’s directive comes as a response to what it describes as a 'growing trend' of receiving distress calls from Kenyan workers abroad. 

COTU claims that these workers are having difficulties as a result of the actions of a few people with 'activist inclinations' who leave the country without following proper protocols.

According to the statement, these individuals 'sneak out of the country, to export their activism beyond our borders,' engaging in activities that may lead to foreign legal consequences.

 COTU  argues that this behaviour not only endangers the individuals involved but also risks the welfare and reputation of other Kenyan workers in those countries.

Francis Atwoli, the COTU Secretary General  revealed that he had previously raised the alarm on this issue in May 2025, warning that Kenyan workers in Tanzania were facing discrimination, including terminated work permits, as a direct result of this 'unbecoming trend.'

The trade union body expressed surprise that some are now blaming the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for a lack of protection, when they themselves left the country “without their knowledge” and potentially with “ulterior motives.”

The statement also targeted experienced politicians, including former Foreign Affairs Minister Kalonzo Musyoka, for allegedly disregarding diplomatic procedures and unfairly criticising the ministry.

COTU firmly stated that those who bypass official procedures and disrespect the laws of sovereign states should not 'incite or seek sympathy from innocent Kenyans.'

 Accordingf to COTU, it is 'very unfair' to hold the Ministry of Foreign Affairs responsible for individuals who left without its knowledge.

Drawing a parallel, the union affirmed that Kenya would not tolerate foreigners entering the country 'to cause havoc', citing a recent incident involving a Chinese national in an Export Processing Zone (EPZ) who allegedly insulted the COTU Chairman General. 

The organization called for the individual’s immediate deportation