The Kenyan government mandates DNA tests for mothers returning with children from abroad to address child trafficking concerns. Labour CS Alfred Mutua announced this policy while also detailing initiatives to support distressed citizens abroad. Controversy arose during discussions about the portrayal of Kenyan workers, alongside inaccurate claims regarding fatalities among them.
The Kenyan government has officially established a policy mandating that mothers returning with children from abroad undergo DNA testing. This requirement was publicized by Labour and Social Protection Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua during a recent Senate appearance, with the primary objective of fighting child trafficking and protecting the welfare of children entering the country.
Upon arrival at Kenya’s entry points, mothers will be subjected to DNA tests that verify their biological relationship with their children. Mutua pointed to a growing number of instances where Kenyan women give birth abroad, which raises suspicions of child trafficking activities. He remarked that the prevailing cases necessitate precautionary measures to prevent illicit child trafficking.
The government is actively facilitating the repatriation of these mothers and their children to Kenya. The Ministry of Labour is committed to supporting returning families and ensuring a smooth transition back to their home country. Mutua reiterated their effort to assist these women and children in returning safely.
In addition to implementing DNA tests, Mutua addressed the government’s initiatives for supporting distressed Kenyans abroad. He mentioned that specific reporting tools, including emergency contact numbers available through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Labour’s websites, have been provided to assist citizens in crisis.
Furthermore, improvements in the support system for Kenyan abroad workers are underway, with plans to allocate new labour attachments to crucial countries such as Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Switzerland, the UAE, and Germany. Mutua stated that an expenditure of Ksh 300 million is anticipated for establishing these initiatives within the next two to three months.
However, some concerns were voiced during the Senate session regarding Mutua’s discussion of Kenyan workers abroad. The Labour CS advised against activism in foreign countries, indicating that such actions can lead to legal complications. He proposed an attitude training initiative to instill a sense of compliance among Kenyan workers overseas.
Responses to these assertions varied, with some senators, including Kitui Senator Enock Wambua, expressing outrage at what they perceived as the unfair characterization of Kenyan workers. Additionally, Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi criticized Mutua for inaccurately stating that no Kenyans had died while working abroad, a claim contradicted by reports of fatalities in countries like Saudi Arabia.
In conclusion, the Kenyan government has implemented a policy mandating DNA testing for mothers returning with children from abroad to combat child trafficking and strengthen child welfare. While efforts to support distressed Kenyans overseas and facilitate safe repatriation are commendable, concerns regarding perceived profiling of workers abroad and misinformation about fatalities highlight the need for sensitive and accurate communication from government officials. The government’s initiatives aim to protect vulnerable populations while ensuring the rights and dignity of Kenyan citizens abroad are upheld.
Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke
