Germany is quickly surpassing France as the leading destination for Africans in Europe, a shift attributed to the open-door immigration policy introduced by former Chancellor Angela Merkel. However, this policy has led to growing support for the far-right, anti-immigration party AfD, posing challenges for the ruling party.

During the 2015-2016 migrant crisis, Germany took in over one million people, mostly fleeing conflict in countries such as Chad, Sudan, and Libya.

Kenyan President William Ruto and opposition leader Raila Odinga, who is vying for the African Union Chair, are currently on a tour in Germany. Kenya, struggling to provide jobs and sufficient income for its young professionals, contrasts with Germany, which faces a skilled labor shortage.

In response to these challenges, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz signed a labor agreement with President Ruto. This deal aims to facilitate legal migration for skilled Kenyan workers while simplifying the repatriation of Kenyans residing in Germany without legal status.

President Ruto shared that Germany has agreed to relax some immigration laws to allow Kenyans to secure employment in Europe’s largest economy. The agreement also includes provisions for long-term visas for Kenyans to study or pursue vocational training in Germany.

IT specialists from Kenya will particularly benefit, as they will be allowed to enter and work in Germany without formal qualifications. Both governments will support the migration of skilled workers with recognized qualifications.

The reaction of other European countries, many of which have voiced opposition to illegal immigration, remains to be seen.