A new labor agreement between Kenya and Germany is offering young Kenyans safer alternatives to dangerous migration routes, according to Soila-Lasoi Toniok who has experience working with the migration system in Germany.While Kenya doesn’t face the same scale of irregular migration to Europe as some African nations, this partnership establishes important legal channels for those seeking opportunities abroad.
“For years, we’ve watched other Africans risk everything crossing the Sahara and Mediterranean,” Soila explains. “While Kenya’s situation differs, this agreement prevents our youth from ever needing to take such risks.” The deal creates structured migration pathways while providing skills training to prepare Kenyans for the European job market.
Soila emphasizes this isn’t about praising any particular leader, but about supporting the concept of legal migration frameworks. “My endorsement is strictly for establishing proper channels between African and European nations,” she clarifies. “It’s about creating opportunities through the right systems rather than praising any political figure.”
Soila notes that while Germany receives many irregular migrants from Africa, most don’t originate from Kenya. “This agreement positions Kenya proactively. “We’re implementing solutions before a crisis emerges.” The model could inspire similar partnerships across the continent.
Already, complementary programs like German language courses in Narok are equipping Kenyan youth with valuable skills. “This is how migration should work,” Soila observes. “Not as a desperate gamble, but as a planned opportunity with proper preparation.”
As European nations face labor shortages and African youth seek better prospects, Soila believes such agreements represent the future. “Legal pathways protect lives and dignity on both sides,” she concludes. “That’s what makes this approach so valuable – it’s not politics, it’s practical human solutions.”
