"Exploitation of Kenyan Domestic Workers in Saudi Arabia: Amnesty International Report Exposes Harsh Realities"
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"Exploitation of Kenyan Domestic Workers in Saudi Arabia: Amnesty International Report Exposes Harsh Realities"
[!CDATA[A recent report by Amnesty International reveals the distressing experiences of over 70 Kenyan women who worked as domestic workers in Saudi Arabia. The women were lured by false promises, deprived of rest days, and subjected to harsh working conditions with little or no compensation. One woman, Bigeni Maina Mwangi, shared her story of being misled into domestic servitude after being promised a beautician job in Saudi Arabia. Despite working for 17 months without pay, she never received her wages upon returning home. The report calls for labor protections for domestic workers and prosecution of abusive employers and complicit recruitment agencies. Mejuma Shaban Ali also recounted her ordeal of being trapped in what she described as a "prison" after signing a contract at the airport before flying to Saudi Arabia. She eventually escaped and sought help from the Embassy, only to be advised to find another employer due to her lack of earnings. Ali ended up working illegally with her passport held by her initial employer. Both women emphasized the need for action against rogue recruitment agencies and increased embassy support for distressed workers. Amnesty International estimates that more than 150,000 Kenyans are employed as domestic workers in Saudi Arabia, highlighting the prevalence of exploitative practices akin to modern slavery. The organization's Kenya Executive Director, Irungu Houghton, condemned the system and called for stronger measures to protect Kenyan workers abroad. The Kenyan government has taken steps to address exploitative recruitment agencies and assist stranded citizens, demonstrating a commitment to safeguarding the welfare of its citizens working overseas.]]