Kenyan Government Mandates DNA Testing for Mothers Returning from Abroad
The Kenyan government has mandated DNA testing for mothers returning with children from abroad to combat child trafficking. This policy was announced by Labour Secretary Alfred Mutua, who also discussed plans to assist distressed Kenyans abroad and improve their support systems. However, his comments about Kenyan workers sparked criticism from some senators who felt unfairly profiled.
The Kenyan government has instituted a policy mandating DNA testing for mothers returning with children from abroad. This announcement was made by Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua during his Senate appearance, aimed at addressing child trafficking and ensuring child safety.
The DNA tests will be conducted at the country’s entry points to confirm the biological relationship between the mothers and their children. This initiative responds to growing concerns about Kenyan women who give birth abroad, with suspicions of involvement in trafficking schemes.
“We have got quite a number of Kenyans in some countries who have given birth. We are trying to get them back home with their children,” stated Mutua. The government is also focused on repatriating these women and their children, with the Ministry of Labour offering necessary support.
Mutua further highlighted efforts to assist Kenyans facing distress abroad, including the provision of emergency contact numbers via the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Labour’s websites. “If you have any distress, you call this number,” he emphasized, ensuring that support is available for those in need.
Plans to enhance services for Kenyan workers abroad include deploying new labour attachments to key nations such as Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Switzerland, the UAE, and Germany. The initiative, expected to cost approximately Ksh 300 million, aims to improve assistance for Kenyan workers.
Nonetheless, Mutua’s statements have drawn criticism. Some senators expressed concerns over his comments regarding the behavior of Kenyans abroad, with Kitui Senator Enock Wambua disputing the notion that all Kenyan workers are activists. Furthermore, Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi challenged Mutua’s claim that no Kenyans had died while working overseas, citing contrary reports of fatalities in countries like Saudi Arabia.
Overall, the newly implemented DNA testing policy and proposed support measures aim to protect children and assist Kenyans abroad, despite the controversies surrounding the discourse about Kenyan workers and their treatment overseas.
The Kenyan government’s new DNA testing policy for mothers returning from abroad highlights the commitment to combat child trafficking and protect children’s welfare. However, the controversy surrounding comments made by Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua underscores the need for a more nuanced understanding of Kenyans working overseas. The government’s plans for improved support for these citizens indicate an effort to address the challenges faced by them, despite the criticisms raised by legislators.
Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke
