The government has intensified efforts to crack down on scams involving foreign jobs, investments, and study opportunities targeting residents in Eldoret. Labour and Skills Development PS Shadrack Mwadime disclosed that 16 agencies have been flagged for operating without proper certifications. This investigation was conducted in collaboration with the DCI and police.
The state is urging job seekers to verify the legitimacy of any job offers abroad to avoid falling victim to fraud. Mwadime emphasized that all job advertisements or offers must be approved by the National Employment Authority director general.
This crackdown follows a recent scandal in Eldoret, where approximately 300 individuals were reportedly defrauded by a company promising non-existent jobs in Canada. Victims were allegedly charged between Sh300,000 and Sh350,000 for visas and other services.
Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii has also called for action against these fraudulent agencies. He stated that the county would collaborate with security forces to address those damaging Eldoret’s reputation. Over the past three years, residents have reportedly lost around Sh10 billion to such scams.
Governor Bii responded to recent media reports depicting Eldoret as a hub for scammers, including cases where students were deceived while seeking job and study opportunities abroad. He reassured that these reports do not accurately represent Eldoret. The governor highlighted that Eldoret is a vibrant, progressive, and welcoming city, open to investors and visitors, and stands as a symbol of growth, opportunity, and innovation.
Bii said effective immediately, his administration, in collaboration with relevant authorities, will launch a rigorous crackdown on the fraudulent operations in the region.
“We will revoke the operating licenses of any agency found to be in violation of regulations within our county,” he said.
The county has demanded that the National Employment Authority and the Ministry of Labour enforce stricter vetting processes before approving any applications.
He said there must be accountability at all levels to protect citizens and uphold the integrity of Eldoret.
Bii said Eldoret deserved to be recognised for its achievements, not undermined and tainted by unscrupulous individuals and companies that target hardworking citizens of Uasin Gishu.
“We empathise with the parents and students affected by these scams. It is intolerable that our citizens are being preyed upon by such unscrupulous individuals,” said the county boss.
He urged residents to exercise caution and conduct proper due diligence before committing to opportunities that may later prove to be fraudulent.
“My administration remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring the City of Eldoret continues to thrive as a welcoming and prosperous hub for all,” Bii said.
Uasin Gishu county police commander Benjamin Mwanthi said all cases reported officially were under active investigations.
Officers from the DCI in Nairobi are already in the town to probe the latest scam in which some residents including prominent people like magistrates, lost more than Sh1 billion in an investment scam.
