In a report by the World Bank on the policy options of Kenya during the pandemic, there have been visible disruptions in trade and key sources of foreign exchange, which is expected to heavily weigh on remittances and foreign direct investment.

Association of Skilled Migrant Agencies of Kenya chief executive Harun Ambeje says aside from strengthening bilateral trade, labour migration could be a possible solution that might help give the economy the much-needed boost post-Covid-19.

Ambaje argues that if Kenya is to tap into its potential of exporting labour post-coronavirus, the remittances and foreign investment being injected back to the country could help turn around the effects of the pandemic.

However, for the remittances to work efficiently, countries such as Kenya need to develop policies that promote stable growth, particularly in rural areas.

Mr Ambaje says for Kenya to unlock its potential in labour migration, there is a need for government goodwill in relation to favourable bilateral policies, strengthened public-private partnerships and functioning institutions.