7 Reasons Why Kenya Remains Best Place For Expat

With increased crime rates in many places, more corruption than ever before and unstable political systems causing business to fail, people are starting to wonder if they should move out of the country. However, some countries remain safe havens for expats with little or no fear of burglary or theft while still enjoying some benefits of a highly developed nation. Here are some of the main reasons why Kenya remains one of the best places for expats.

1.       An Increasingly Stable Political Landscape

Over the last decade, Kenya has suffered from increasingly volatile politics rated as rated as volatile by the Economist Intelligence Unit. In 2008, President Mwai Kibaki passed away and was replaced by a Prime Minister, Raila Odinga.

Since then there have been numerous attempts from within the government to remove him from power which have caused significant unrest and political instability in Kenya with an increasing number of murders due to the conflict. In 2013 however, relations between the two men settled down and they formed a coalition government ensuring that Kenya will have a stable government for the next 5 years at least.

2.       Peaceful Environment with Low Crime Rate

According to reports from Safe wise, Kenya is one of the safest countries in Africa. There’s little risk of burglary, with only 1 in 332 homes having been robbed in 2015. This is because Kenya has one of the highest police to population ratios in Africa at 384 per 100,000 people which mean that more than 300 officers for every 100,000 residents are active on the streets of Kenya. They will help keep crime levels low and ensure that there’s little fear of getting robbed.

3.       A Fast Developing Nation with More Opportunities for Expats

Kenya is one of the fastest developing nations in Africa and that includes its business sector. Kenya’s economy has seen a steady growth in recent years with significant rise in the number of businesses being registered. There are also many growing industries in Kenya including agriculture, construction, financial services and tourism.

Fewer red tape when setting up a business in Kenya allows expats to focus on their investment rather than dealing with the bureaucracy of starting a business in some other countries. This means that Kenya is an ideal country for entrepreneurs to open their businesses and make good profit while also enjoying all the benefits of living in a tropical country.

4.       A Booming Tourism Sector with Little Threat of Terrorism

Kenya is one of the main tourist attractions in Africa with many people from all over the world travelling to Kenya for its natural beauty and peaceful environment. Various activities such as balloon safaris, elephant riding and learning about local culture can be enjoyed by tourists without fear of getting hurt.

This is because the Kenyan government has been keen on ensuring that tourism remains safe and terrorism free. The country experiences very little threat from terrorism largely due to its strict security measures and surveillance systems.

Kenya also offers a peaceful environment for those who want to escape conflict or persecution in their home countries. For expats who don’t enjoy the same political stability as Kenya, it is a good place to find refuge until things get back to normal.

5.       Great Climate with Less Power Outage

Kenya has a tropical weather which makes it ideal for expats from other countries looking out for warmer weather. Not only is the weather great but there are fewer power outages compared to other African nations while electricity supply remains fairly constant.

The country has one of Africa’s largest electricity plants at Olkaria which has a capacity of generating 1,800 MW of power with plans underway to increase its capacity in future. Easy access to other African countries with a friendlier bureaucracy

Kenya is a gateway country of Africa since it borders the Indian Ocean and serves as a port for many neighbouring countries. There are several options for travelling within Africa including bus, train or air travel. Travelling between African countries is also fairly easy with Kenya being part of the East African Community.

There are no language barriers when you visit other African countries because they have one or more official language which are either similar or the same as Kenyan languages. This makes it easier for expats to live in Kenya without having to learn a new language while still enjoying close cultural ties with African neighbours.

6.       Great Weather That Lasts Throughout the Year

Kenya has a hot climate all-round with minimal rain in some parts of the country. This means that there is a perfect temperature in Kenya all-round the year. The country records rain mostly during the months of March, April and May with a possibility of heavy thunderstorms which make it a great time to enjoy outdoor activities such as scuba diving.

A friendly population that makes you feel at home instantly. Kenya has one of the friendliest populations in Africa with most people being hospitable. This makes it easy for expats to live in Kenya because they are welcomed by the locals just like any other Kenyan.

All over Kenya, one will find quite a number of expats who have made this country their home and have contributed quite significantly in the economic growth of the nation. The population is diverse, multi-cultural and respects cultural diversity; this makes it easy for expats to live in Kenya.

7.       Great Educational Opportunities for Children of Foreigners

Kenya has great schools which are affordable by all strata of society. There are a number of international schools in Kenya, including the United Nations International School and The Rift Valley Academy which offer an international curriculum at affordable prices.

5 Tips to Get Job in Kenya as an Expat

1.  Get Experience and References from Previous Jobs

Employers may be wary of employing those who have not worked before. Before you apply for a job, it will be helpful if you can show some detailed work samples such as photos, videos or diagrams. Also, try to accumulate as many references as possible from previous employers.

2. Fill out Your Resume and Cover Letter Meticulously

It is important you put in the address of the company as the recipient because some companies do not receive mail online. Also, be careful to include all names completely and accurately just as they appear on your passport or ID card. Make sure you list all your work experiences and skills you have.

3.  Make Yourself Stand Out

Some companies are looking for specific skills or work experiences. If you do not have the right experience, look for ways to make yourself stand out in your application. Include any awards you may have received, languages spoken and examples of your work ethic if they are related to the job position.

4.   Learn More about the Culture of Kenya

Kenyans are quite reserved, but that does not mean they do not like to get to know other people. It will help if you can learn a bit more about their culture and be patient with them when it comes to getting your point across. The process may be slower than what you are used to.

5.   Dress to Impress

It is an unfortunate fact that first impressions are very important in the professional world. If you are invited for an interview, it will be wise to dress properly for the occasion. Try not to wear too much makeup or flashy clothing as this might have a negative impact on your potential employer’s opinion of you right away.

Frequently Asked Questions about Getting Work in Kenya

How can I get a job before I come to Kenya?

The first step towards finding work in Kenya is to obtain a certificate of good conduct (CGC), which you can apply for from your local police station. You should show the certificate to prospective employers before you arrive in Kenya as they may need a copy of it.

What Kind Of Work Can I Get In Kenya?

There are various possibilities for working in Kenya. There are many jobs available with the numerous departments of the Kenyan government, although these are more difficult to get without being able to speak fluent Swahili. Many people travel to Kenya with an employment visa expecting to get a job at one of Kenya’s safari lodges.

This is not always possible – particularly in the high season when many of these jobs are filled. Jobs with international non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are frequently advertised, often on their websites or in local newspapers such as The Daily Nation.

What kind of salary can I expect?

Salaries are variable depending on the employer’s budget or needs. Most jobs in Kenya do not come with accommodation included, but this is negotiable. It is recommended that you ask for a written job contract stating your terms of employment.

Conclusion

Working in Kenya is quite easy compared to other countries in Africa. In fact, you’ll get job that you won’t even imagine. On the flip side, it’s quite essential to understand the process before moving to the country as an expat. Nonetheless, follow this platform for more updates regarding moving to Kenya as an expat.

Before introducing this article, if you are interested in our core services which are expat financial, insurance and mortgages, you can contact me here. 

The best time to consider your financial situation is when you are moving to a new country.

Introduction

You’ve worked hard, saved your money, and paid off all of your debts. Congratulations! Now, you’re ready to relax and enjoy yourself but wondering where to go? Worry less, as we’ve got you covered.

The world is increasingly connected due to technology advances that enable people to communicate. With each other no matter where they are in the world.  As a result, more and more expats are roaming the world in search of a new job, a second home or just a more exciting life.

While many countries have vibrant expat communities – Thailand, for example – there are still plenty of places that would be great to work and live if only they weren’t so financially out-of-reach.  To help our readers (you) explore the globe and decide where to settle down, we offer this list of places – in no particular order – that, although not exactly cheap, but are still more affordable than you might expect.

With tech companies on the rise and a growing economy, Kenya has a lot to offer expats.  In fact, thanks to its rich history and beautiful landscapes. It’s one of the most popular countries in East Africa for people looking to relocate. Want some good news? If you’re from somewhere that deals with snow during certain months of the year, you’ll be happy to know that Nairobi only experiences snow every few years.

As a professional, working in Kenya, you’ll have access to some of the best job opportunities available in Africa.  In fact, there are more than 1,000 foreign investment companies in Kenya alone, including GE Capital and IBM – which means that you’ll have no trouble finding a job that makes good use of your skills. And that’s why we’ve compiled this article. Would you love to know more? Read further!

7 Benefits of Working in Kenya as an Expat

If you’re planning a move abroad, and seeking employment opportunities in the process, you might want to consider Africa. Not only is it one of developing regions that provides ample job opportunities for native English speakers but it’s also home to dozens – if not hundreds – of fascinating countries waiting to be explored.

The East African country of Kenya is a popular destination for expats. Working as an expat in Kenya offers its own unique benefits that if combined with the sheer joy of exploring such a beautiful country, can make your stay worthwhile and memorable for years to come. Here are seven benefits of working as an expat in Kenya.

1.       The Weather Is Amazing

Kenya has a tropical climate, and thanks to its location near the equator; it never experiences freezing temperatures or extreme heat. Winters and summers aren’t too harsh and they’re followed by moderate spring and autumn seasons.

2.       There’s a Lot of Job Opportunities for Expats

According to Statista, Kenya’s GDP was $68.64 billion in 2016 and ranked as the 68th wealthiest country in Africa, a huge jump from its 90th place ranking only three years ago. The country is also home to over 30 million people, but with a population growth rate of 2.4%, Kenya is one of the lowest African countries on that list.

Work opportunities for expats are plentiful in Kenya. Several global companies have established their headquarters here including mobile telephone giant, Safaricom, media conglomerate Nation Media Group and British Petroleum (BP).

3.       The Culture Is Rich

Kenya is home to over 40 ethnic groups, each with its own distinct customs and traditions that make it easily one of the most diverse countries in Africa. With that being said, there are other unique cultures and traditions that’d make you fall in love with this country while working as an expat.

4.       The Food Is Amazing

Kenya’s cuisine is simple, but delicious. If you’re a seafood lover, you’d love this country since they make use of tilapia, catfish and carp to prepare their meals, while land lovers are treated with fresh beef, pork and chicken.

5.       There’s a High Chance of Promotion

Due to the current economic state of Kenya, you’re likely to get promoted every two years or so, as well as receive generous bonuses during special occasions such as Christmas and Easter. This applies for expats who desire local promotions as well since they’ll be given preferential treatment over Kenyans.

6.       You Can Enjoy Nature’s Benefits

Whether you’re an adventurer or the type who loves the outdoors, Kenya is a perfect destination for you because it features everything from beaches to rainforests to deserts. Explore the Soysambu Conservancy, home to giraffes and zebras, or dive into Lake Naivasha which is famous for its white-colored fish. There are swamps, mountains and even volcanoes waiting to be discovered.

7.       You’ll have a Satisfying Work-Life Balance

Working in Kenya is great! Your colleagues will respect you since you’re an expat who’s willing to travel across the world in order to work in Africa, while your company will treat you like royalty. Annual holiday leaves are generous, and during weekends, you can take the time to see the many national parks that surround Kenya’s capital city, Nairobi.

10 Types of Jobs Available For Expats in Kenya

Expats moving to Kenya can easily find a job in most sectors, and most expat careers involve working with international businesses. Many companies recognize the value an outgoing and efficient employee will bring to their company. The following is a list of ten jobs that expats seem to enjoy most in Kenya.

Conservationist

Wildlife conservation in Kenya is a popular career choice for expats, especially those with experience or degrees related to biology or ecology. Volunteers often work in national parks alongside Kenyan wildlife rangers to reinforce safe boundaries for the animals.

When working within the park, one must always remember that they are an ambassador of their country of origin and ensure that no harm is brought to the Kenyan wildlife.

Construction Worker

Construction companies require a great deal of manpower, and as a result expats are often employed to help with building construction. This job is ideal for those who have studied engineering or architecture since they will provide valuable input into the structure of buildings being constructed in Kenya.

Hotel Worker

Expats looking to work in a hotel should always have a clean appearance and a professional attitude. The most common career path for expat employees is as a waiter or waitress, although many other jobs are available for those who have experience with large-scale events/catering or who wish to work as bar staff.

Business Owner

With increased access to global markets due to increased internet connectivity over the last decade, many Kenyan businesses are looking for ways to expand their business outside of Kenya. Expats will find that owning a small or large business in Kenya is mostly dependent on how much capital they have available. Only those who have fought hard and grown their businesses in the international market should consider opening a business in Kenya.

Teacher

Teaching jobs are popular with expats who find themselves jobless upon arrival to Kenya. The most common teaching path is to teach conversational English at schools throughout Kenya. Those who can speak Kiswahili will also find that they are valued since many expats do not speak the local language.

Journalist

Kenyans take immense pride in their country and enjoy learning about its history and culture through the media. There are countless opportunities to work as a journalist, especially those who can write articles for newspapers or online publications in English or Kiswahili. Tips on becoming a journalist are available here (opens in new window).

International Business Consultant

Working as a consultant with international affairs is popular among expats with experience working in the United Nations, World Bank, or similar organization. They work in Kenya alongside Kenyans to further Africa’s global development through increased collaboration with other countries and organizations for sustainable development.

Missionary

Many religious organizations in Kenya hire missionaries to teach and lead local congregations. The most common denomination is Christianity, but there are also opportunities for foreign Muslims who wish to help spread the word of Islam in Kenya. Those with experience in teaching or active spiritual practice will find themselves more marketable.

Farmer

Expats who wish to work as a farmer should remember that they must have money to start and maintain the farm. Those looking to make a profit off of their land will find themselves in better financial shape than those who simply want a job and do not plan on earning much from their farming efforts.

Security Guard

As Kenya’s population continues to rise, so will crime. This means that there is always a need for security guards who can watch over private property and respond quickly if needed. Some of these jobs are full-time while others are “on-call” like call centre employees in Kenya. Training is often provided at the job site, although many companies prefer candidates who have previous experience in a similar role.

You can see part 2 here.