Coastal counties face surge in online job scams, officials warn
Gicheha said Mombasa has recorded the highest number of victims nationwide, noting that many jobseekers are persuaded to hand over money or personal documents through unverified agents promising work in the Middle East and Europe.
Coastal counties are emerging as hotspots for online recruitment fraud, prompting senior government officials to call for greater vigilance among residents seeking employment abroad.
Speaking during an engagement at the Bandari Maritime Academy in Mombasa, Director of the Welfare and Rights Division at the Department of Diaspora Affairs, Emma Gicheha, said deceptive digital job offers circulating on platforms such as TikTok and Instagram continue to lure scores of young people into financial loss and, in some cases, human trafficking networks.
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Gicheha said Mombasa has recorded the highest number of victims nationwide, noting that many jobseekers are persuaded to hand over money or personal documents through unverified agents promising work in the Middle East and Europe.
She urged those aspiring to work overseas to rely solely on the National Employment Authority and officially accredited recruiters.
“Many links being shared online are structured to trap unsuspecting applicants. We encourage Kenyans to follow the lawful pathway to avoid exploitation,” she said.
She added that limited employment opportunities locally have fuelled a surge in labour migration, making young people especially vulnerable to fraudulent schemes.
“The job opportunities in Kenya are still low, and that is why the labour mobility is high. Most of the youths end up travelling abroad,” she stated.
Director of Political and Diplomatic Affairs at the Department of Foreign Affairs, Josphat Makaira, said the government’s Foreign Policy Mashinani initiative aims to ensure coastal communities benefit more directly from national programmes.
He noted that technology and digital safety are among the priority issues being addressed.
Local leaders also used the forum to highlight broader development concerns. Lamu Governor Issa Timamy emphasised the need for coastal residents to appreciate the economic value of the marine ecosystem, pledging close collaboration with the national government to unlock opportunities for the region.
Kilifi Deputy Governor Flora Chibule echoed the call, saying Kenya’s coastal belt remains underutilised despite its rich mineral and marine resources.
She added that the county has invested significantly in youth-focused technology initiatives, but more support is needed to ensure the region’s natural wealth contributes meaningfully to community livelihoods.
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