Birdview Microinsurance Company has partnered with the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) and recruiting agencies to enhance protection for migrant workers who have embraced the labor migration drive championed by President William Ruto.
The new product aims to address the growing concerns of Kenyans working abroad by providing comprehensive coverage for emergencies, travel, and medical.
Speaking at the official launch, Birdview Microinsurance Director Richard Muiru emphasised the need for a safety net to protect Kenyan migrants as they navigate unfamiliar territories.
“Unlike countries like India, Bangladesh, and the Philippines, Kenya lacks a legal framework for compulsory insurance for migrant workers, leaving many unprotected. Our mission is to change this by offering accessible and affordable coverage,” said Muiru.
Company CEO James Irungu said the company offers the Last Expense Insurance, which provides a cash benefit within 48 hours of death notification to cover funeral costs and the Evacuation and Repatriation Insurance, designed to assist Kenyans stranded or deceased abroad by covering the costs of medical evacuations and body repatriations.
“Some individuals face emergencies that require them to travel back home immediately, while others experience medical crises that leave them stranded without financial support. Without proper insurance, these individuals suffer greatly. This is the gap we aim to fill,” Irungu stated.
The new insurance package is designed to ensure that migrants have peace of mind while working in foreign countries. It will cover crucial aspects such as emergency travel back home, medical expenses, accidental death, and repatriation, among other unforeseen challenges.
“As the government continues to streamline labour migration policies, Birdview Insurance is positioning itself as a critical player in ensuring that Kenyans working abroad have a secure and dependable support system,” said Muiru.
The official urged employment agencies and other stakeholders to work together in ensuring that all migrants are covered under this new plan, which is poised to be a game-changer in the sector.
KNCCI President Eric Ruto lauded the initiative, terming it a timely intervention that aligns perfectly with the government's labour migration agenda.
“This package ensures that Kenyan workers abroad are fully taken care of. It not only secures them financially but also reassures their families back home that their loved ones are protected,” Ruto said.
Recruiting agencies have also welcomed the move, acknowledging that they have often struggled to provide solutions to distressed clients facing emergencies while abroad. Many have been overwhelmed by inquiries from families seeking support for their loved ones without a structured system in place.
“This initiative brings much-needed relief. We have spent sleepless nights trying to assist desperate families who don’t know how to handle situations affecting their relatives abroad. Birdview Insurance has finally provided a solution,” said a recruitment agency representative.
The labour migration drive has gained significant momentum in recent months, with thousands of Kenyans seeking job opportunities in countries such as the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Canada and Germany.
