Mount Kenya University on Tuesday, 24th September 2025, hosted a high-level public lecture on “Labour Migration Trends in the East and Horn of Africa: The Role of the ILO’s Better Regional Migration Management Programme in Improving Labour Migration Governance.”
The event brought together policymakers, scholars, and students for a robust dialogue on the dynamics of labour migration in the region.
The keynote address was delivered by, Ms. Aida Awel, Chief Technical Advisor at the International Labour Organization (ILO) highlighted the growing importance of labour migration in the East and Horn of Africa, noting that migration has become both an economic opportunity and a policy challenge for the region.
She explained that the ILO’s Better Regional Migration Management (BRMM) Programme plays a central role in supporting governments, employers, and workers’ organizations to improve governance structures, protect migrant workers’ rights, and foster fair recruitment practices. According to Ms. Awel, strengthening labour migration systems not only helps safeguard human rights but also contributes to regional integration and sustainable development.
Hon. Shadrack Mwadime, Principal Secretary for Labour and Skills Development, lauded the ILO’s efforts and acknowledged the importance of institutions such as MKU in shaping dialogue on critical labour issues.
He further commended Mount Kenya University for forging partnerships with foreign countries to create job opportunities for its graduates abroad, reinforcing Kenya’s commitment to skills mobility and global employability.
“If there is a job opportunity outside Kenya, we must see it as a chance for our graduates to earn a living,” PS Mwadimo said.
Representing the Vice-Chancellor, Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic and Research Affairs Dr. Mercyline Kamande highlighted the university’s role as more than just a centre of learning, but also as a hub for dialogue on issues that shape society.
MKU is committed to producing globally competitive graduates who are equipped not only with professional skills but also with an awareness of the socio-economic issues affecting society. Dr. Kamande said. She stressed that partnerships with international bodies such as the ILO are vital in enriching academic research and policy engagement.
Prof. Peter Wanderi added that MKU has been designated by the United Nations as the Hub for Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Number 9, Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, for 2025 to 2027. He noted that this global recognition affirms MKU’s commitment to innovation and solutions that address both local and international challenges.
The event demonstrated the value of collaboration between universities, governments, and international organizations in shaping a future where labour migration is managed responsibly, protecting workers while advancing regional and national development goals.
