Residents push for revival of 'white card' jobs to curb unemployment in Mombasa
The casual labour programme, scrapped 16 years ago, allowed the port authority to hire workers on short-term renewable contracts, providing a critical source of income for many unemployed residents.
Mombasa residents are calling on the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) to bring back the once-popular white card employment scheme in a bid to curb rising joblessness and drug abuse among local youth.
The casual labour programme, scrapped 16 years ago, allowed the port authority to hire workers on short-term renewable contracts, providing a critical source of income for many unemployed residents.
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It was especially popular among young people, offering them a pathway into more stable employment.
“We want the white card system reintroduced. It was a stepping stone for many of us. Young people need such chances now more than ever,” said John Walele, a Mombasa resident.
He believes reinstating the programme would significantly reduce the number of idle youth drawn into drugs and crime. “It would restore dignity and self-reliance among the youth who currently spend their time in drug dens,” he added.
Walele also commended KPA Managing Director Captain William Ruto for his stewardship, especially noting the improved transparency in tendering and job allocation under his leadership.
He praised the return of port operations to Mombasa under the Kenya Kwanza administration, saying the move has stimulated economic activity and created employment opportunities.
“The President honoured his campaign pledge to bring back port services, and we can see the impact of trucks everywhere, agents back in business, and life in the city returning. From hotels to car showrooms, businesses are thriving again,” said Walele
But with many university graduates joining the job market each year, Walele urged the government and KPA to prioritise transparency and inclusivity in hiring.
“We know not all graduates will be absorbed, but more opportunities need to be created, especially for young people,” he said.
Another resident, Tsuma Mwangale, noted that the return of port services had restored hope to workers who had lost jobs when operations shifted to Nairobi and Naivasha.
He called for the youth, including the Gen-Z cohort, to be considered whenever new job opportunities arise.
Meanwhile, Bahati Mwaringa appealed for women and young people to be prioritised in both employment and procurement opportunities. “Without jobs, our youth are vulnerable. If they are engaged in meaningful work, we won’t be living in fear of bad news,” she said.
The residents hope their appeal will lead to a rethink by authorities and a renewed focus on grassroots employment solutions.
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