Fifty Kenyan citizens have left the country for Russia after securing employment opportunities in the food packaging sector, in what the government is calling a major step toward addressing the country’s unemployment crisis.

The Cabinet Secretary for Labour and Social Protection, Dr. Alfred Mutua on June 25, 2025 saw off the first batch of workers, who come from different counties across Kenya. The group is part of a larger initiative to link Kenyan youth with international job opportunities.

According to Mutua, each of the recruits will earn a monthly take-home salary of Ksh. 115,000 per month, along with free accommodation and meals provided by their employer in Russia.

“It was touching to hear the young Kenyans express how this opportunity gives them a new lease on life and how grateful they are to President William Ruto for this life-changing opportunity,” he stated.

Mutua also noted that Uwezo Fund was able to provide them with monies for tickets and the service fee, and they did not have to come up with any personal money.

Once they start work, they will slowly refund the Government loan over a short period so that others can benefit from the funds.