This archive report was first published on 27 September 2021.
Kenya's Foreign Ministry has revealed that 89 Kenyans, mostly domestic workers, have died in Saudi Arabia over the past two years. The ministry's Principal Secretary, Macharia Kamau, has expressed concerns over the high number of deaths, stating that they are 'suspicious'.
According to Kamau, the deaths are not just a coincidence, but rather a pattern that warrants further investigation. He pointed out that the number of deaths in Saudi Arabia is significantly higher than in other countries where Kenyan workers are employed.
Forty-one Kenyans have died in Saudi Arabia in the last nine months, allegedly due to heart failure. However, Kamau has questioned the official cause of death, suggesting that it may be more than just cardiac arrest.
Many Kenyans see working in Arab countries as a ticket out of poverty, with about 40% of the population living below the poverty line. However, the risks associated with working abroad, including abuse and exploitation, are a major concern.
Lawmaker Wachira Kabinga has called for greater protection for Kenyan laborers abroad, stating that their safety and well-being should be a priority.
One such case is that of Caroline Aluoch, a 24-year-old domestic worker who died in Saudi Arabia this year. Her sister, Beryl Awuor, has spoken out about the suspicious circumstances surrounding her death, including scratches on her face and a deep cut around her chest.
Amnesty International has highlighted the plight of migrant workers in the Middle East, citing cases of forced labor, physical abuse, and rape. The organization has called for greater action to protect the rights of these workers.
