College for Saudi Arabia workers dismisses claims of mistreatment

There are claims that about 80 women escaped from the institution by jumping over the fence.

"Some came but did not survive the four weeks. They also had concerns that they may have been duped by agents who brought them here," said another woman.

The agencies paid the women's transport from home and training fees. The trainees are from over 36 counties.

One woman said they signed a contract to remain in the institution for one month or in default refund Sh120,000 allegedly spent on them by their agents.

"We surrendered our passport, identity cards and birth certificates and agreed to be in the institution to undergo training. We are trained on how to live with our bosses in Saudi Arabia," she said.

"When we start talking, our colleagues who feel threatened warn that they will report us to our teachers. Once reported, our teachers threaten to throw us out."

But the principal, Stanley Mokua, said the college was registered under the National Industrial Training Authority (NITA).

A section of students at Twinspur College, Lanet, Nakuru County. [Kipsang Joseph, Standard]

The trainees are also expected to undergo medical test and if they pass, they will be given passports and visas to fly out.

The trainees are determined to try their luck in the Gulf despite incidents of harassment by employers.

"The majority of women who are mistreated did not undergo the training we have done and it may have contributed to how their life turned out," said Elizabeth Masiza from Vihiga County.

Maloba said she contacted an agency she was referred to by a friend working in Saudi Arabia.

"We are preparing ourselves to live in a stranger's house without our families, our boyfriends or husbands and it will be difficult to some women, especially those who are impatient," she said.

Rosemary Nyambura from Nyandarua County said she wanted to follow in the footsteps of her elder sister who has bought land and built a house for herself.

Twinspur College, Lanet, Nakuru County. [Kipsang Joseph, Standard]

"I cannot provide for my children and my parents, and pay my rent. In Saudi Arabia, if I do a homecare job I will be paid at least Sh30,000 which is fair," said Nyambura.

She called on the government to ensure there was good relationship between Kenya and Saudi Arabia for the women to be safe when working in the country.