Germany and Kenya Strike Deal to Boost Skilled Worker Migration and Streamline Repatriation

• Sep 14, 2024

In a landmark agreement, Germany and Kenya have signed a deal aimed at allowing more skilled workers from the East African nation to live and work in Germany, Europe's largest economy. The agreement, signed on Friday in Berlin, also seeks to simplify the repatriation process for Kenyans who do not meet the legal requirements to stay in Germany.

Germany, facing an aging population and a shrinking workforce, is in urgent need of skilled immigrants. Experts estimate that the country will require around 400,000 skilled workers annually to fill the growing labor gap. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz emphasized the importance of addressing this labor shortage, noting that it is a long-term issue. “The impact of the labor shortage will be with us for years and decades to come,” Scholz said during talks with Kenyan President William Ruto.

Scholz expressed optimism that the new agreement with Kenya would help alleviate the shortage of skilled workers. He also highlighted the reciprocal nature of the deal, which includes measures to expedite the return of Kenyans who are in Germany without the proper legal status. “They can now return home more easily and quickly,” Scholz added.

In recent months, Scholz’s government has taken a firmer stance on illegal migration, following a tragic knife attack in Solingen and electoral gains by the anti-immigrant Alternative for Germany (AfD) party in two eastern state elections. However, Scholz made it clear that Germany remains committed to welcoming those who come through legal channels. “The basis of our prosperity is being open to the world,” he said, emphasizing the value of skilled migrants in maintaining Germany’s economic growth.

Kenyan President William Ruto also praised the agreement, calling it a comprehensive migration and labor mobility partnership. He believes the deal will benefit both countries by capitalizing on Kenya’s large youth population. “We can combine the innovation, creativity, energy, talent, and knowledge of our young people with German investment, technology, and resources,” Ruto said, stressing the potential for a mutually beneficial outcome.

Ruto further supported the deal's focus on repatriation, acknowledging that illegal migration presents challenges for both Kenya and Germany. He emphasized that addressing these issues through the agreement will create more orderly and regulated migration pathways, which are crucial for both nations.

This agreement marks a significant step in strengthening bilateral ties between Germany and Kenya, while addressing labor shortages and migration challenges that both countries face.

Source: Reuters