The Ministry of Labor and Social Protection in Kenya, in collaboration with the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS), and other stakeholders, has unveiled two reports aimed at improving the country’s labor sector. The reports, which sampled 47 firms and establishments across Kenya, aim to provide in-depth insights and occupational information on existing gaps, as well as identifying areas for improvement and outlining in-demand occupations.

One of the key highlights of the reports is the identification of critical employability skills, such as communication, customer handling, work ethics, managerial, and planning abilities. These competencies are vital in today’s job market, and employers often prioritize candidates who possess them.

The reports underscore the significance of Labor Market Information (LMI) as it aids in employment planning, policy development, and the facilitation of labor mobility within and across borders. The Kenyan government has acknowledged the importance of LMI and has launched KeSCO 2022, a revised version of the Kenya National Occupational Classification Standard (KNOCS) of 2000, alongside ESOS 2023.

The KeSCO 2022 standard guarantees international compatibility and exchange of statistical and administrative data on occupations, which is essential for policy development and decision-making in the labor sector. With globalization and evolving technology and work processes, revising the national standards classification occupation to international standards is a necessary step towards creating a more competitive and modern workforce.

Changes in goods and services continue to shape Kenya’s labor market dynamics, with some jobs rendered obsolete, others emerging, and others undergoing title changes. As a result, the revision of the national standards classification occupation to international standards was necessary, ensuring Kenyan workers possess adequate skills and are well-equipped to meet the needs of the job market.

The launch of KeSCO 2022 and ESOS 2023 is a significant milestone towards enhancing Kenya’s labor sector. The reports provide valuable insights into the labor market, highlighting areas of demand and identifying areas for improvement. The Kenyan government’s commitment to creating a competitive and modern workforce is evident in its efforts to revise the national standards classification occupation to international standards. The reports will undoubtedly benefit stakeholders in the labor sector and job seekers alike, providing them with the information they need to make informed decisions about their careers.