Kenya has taken a significant step towards expanding employment opportunities for its healthcare professionals. The government recently hosted a delegation from Saudi Arabia to conduct interviews for specialist nurses seeking jobs in the Kingdom.

This initiative is a direct result of President William Ruto’s visit to Saudi Arabia in November 2023, where the two countries signed a framework for skilled labor exports. Following this agreement, the Kenyan government announced 2,500 vacancies for nurses in Saudi Arabia.

Applicants for the second batch of nurses were required to be Kenyan female nurses aged 45 or younger, with a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing or a Diploma of Nursing-Midwifery European Union. Other criteria included registration with the Nursing Council of Kenya, a valid passport, and a police clearance certificate.

The jobs offered a 1-year renewable contract with an 8-hour daily working schedule and a competitive salary, starting at 4,110 SAR (approximately Ksh. 141,288 for the first year). Nurses are also entitled to annual leave and a free round-trip ticket.

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President Ruto has encouraged Kenyans to seize these opportunities, emphasizing that there is no shame in any job. The government believes that this collaboration will not only benefit Kenyan nurses but also contribute to addressing the healthcare needs in Saudi Arabia.