Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii has vowed to revoke the licenses of travelling agencies duping residents with job and education opportunities abroad.
In a statement on Sunday, August 18, 2024, Governor Bii expressed concern over how Eldoret was making headlines for all but the wrong reasons related to scams.
In the latest incident exposed by a local TV station, over 300 individuals are reported to have lost hundreds of thousands with promises of non-existent jobs in Canada.
The governor lamented that a few unscrupulous business individuals were out to tarnish Eldoret’s reputation as a thriving, cosmopolitan hub.
To arrest the matter, Governor Bii vowed to crack down on the agencies and other businesses duping residents.
“Effective immediately, my administration, in collaboration with relevant authorities, will launch a rigorous crackdown on these fraudulent operations,” Bii stated.
“We will revoke the operating licenses of any agency found to be in violation of regulations within our county,” he added.
Plea to Ministry of Labour
At the same time, Governor Bii called for accountability at all levels of government. He pleaded with the Ministry of Labour and Employment Authority to ensure properly vetted agencies are registered in the country.
“Furthermore, we demand that the National Employment Authority and the Ministry of Labour enforce stricter vetting processes before approving any applications. There must be accountability at all levels to protect our citizens and uphold the integrity of our city,” Bii stated.
Additionally, he called on residents to carry out proper due diligence before giving their money to employment and travelling agents.
“We empathise with the parents and students affected by these scams. It is intolerable that our citizens are being preyed upon by unscrupulous individuals and agencies.
“We urge all residents to exercise caution and conduct proper due diligence before committing to opportunities that may later prove to be fraudulent,” he reiterated.
Despite the setbacks, Governor Bii vowed to revitalise the newly launched Eldoret City and make it a business and investment hub.
“My administration is always committed to ensuring that the City of Eldoret continues to thrive as a welcoming and prosperous hub for all.”
Before the Canada scam, another scandal had rocked Eldoret with most church members lamenting losing their money through an investment scheme.
The matter is currently under investigation.
