If you live in Eldoret or anywhere in Uasin Gishu, you’ve likely heard whispers—and maybe even horror stories—about people losing millions to fake job and study offers abroad. Now, the government is taking action. Uasin Gishu County has shut down 40 travel and recruitment agencies operating in Eldoret for fresh vetting, aiming to clean up the sector and protect locals from fraud.
This move follows rising complaints from jobseekers and parents, many of whom say they were conned by unlicensed agents promising international opportunities that never materialized.
Why Were the Agencies Shut Down?
During a public sensitization meeting at the Rift Valley Technical Training Institute, County Commissioner Edison Nyale said the decision followed investigations showing many agencies were operating without proper licenses.
Some were legally registered as travel agents but had secretly transitioned into recruitment firms—scamming desperate youth and parents out of their savings.
“We decided to close down all the agencies so that we carry out fresh vetting and licensing after verifying their operations,” said Nyale.
What This Means for Eldoret Residents
The focus keyword here is Eldoret job scams, and this crackdown is all about protecting people from:
- Losing money to unverified agents.
- Getting stuck in fraudulent overseas schemes.
- Delays and disappointments after paying huge sums for fake opportunities.
Commissioner Nyale issued a stern warning:
“Anyone found running illegal agencies will face arrest and prosecution.”
How to Protect Yourself from Fake Recruitment in Eldoret
Residents are urged to stay alert and only deal with agencies registered by the National Employment Authority (NEA) and approved by the county government.
Here’s how to avoid getting scammed:
- Verify registration with NEA and County offices.
- Avoid middlemen—go directly to approved agencies.
- Request receipts and written agreements.
- Ask questions—real agencies have nothing to hide.
- Talk to others—community networks can help verify legitimacy.
Painful Lessons from the Finland Education Scandal
The issue brings back memories of the Sh1 billion Finland education program scam that rocked Eldoret. Over 300 students missed out on their overseas dreams despite paying between Sh600,000 and Sh2 million to the county government.
Affected families, led by Hosea Kibet, Noah Kemboi, Magdalene Ruto, and Asenath Okerio, have now turned to public fundraising to send their children to local colleges. A major harambee is planned for June 16 at the Eldoret Sports Club, with a target of Sh60 million to support more than 250 stranded students.
“We’ve waited for years without answers. Now, we just want a fresh start,” said Okerio, one of the victims.
Final Thoughts
This is a wake-up call for Eldoret residents. If you’re looking for a job or study opportunity abroad, do your homework. Trust only licensed, transparent agencies—and speak up when things seem fishy.
With local and national leaders stepping in, including an expected visit from Labour CS Alfred Mutua, there’s renewed hope that Eldoret job scams will soon be a thing of the past.
