"I want to work, but there are no jobs." This is a common phrase among many young people in Kenya. Despite being talented and hardworking, they face unemployment due to limited job opportunities. Meanwhile, Japan is experiencing a rapidly shrinking youth population and severe labour shortages. By 2030, it is estimated that Japan will face a shortfall of six million workers. Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) launched its foreign HR introduction business in 2020. Today, MOL is focusing on Kenyan talent as part of a mission to address social challenges in both Kenya and Japan.
1. The Beginning of MOL’s Foreign HR Business — Leveraging Seafarer Training History
Since 2020, MOL has connected Filipino, Myanmar, Indonesian, and Kenyan workers with Japanese companies. MOL’s background as a shipping company plays a key role here. Operating about 900 vessels, with 97% of crew being foreign nationals, MOL has trained foreign seafarers since the 1980s. This expertise inspired MOL to expand into HR consulting, initially in industries like wind power inspection and gas piping, and now into hospitality, cleaning, and office work. Over 200 foreign workers have already been introduced outside the maritime field.
2. Strengths of MOL’s HR Business — End-to-End Support
MOL leverages its global network to provide comprehensive support: from requirement design, recruitment, Japanese language training, and onboarding, to long-term retention. MOL covers all work visa categories, from “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services” to “Specified Skilled Worker,” ensuring nationwide and multinational support.
3. HR Services in Kenya — Tackling Social Challenges Together
Kenya faces high youth unemployment. Estimates vary: KLMIS reports 17.7% unemployment among 15–34-year-olds, while FKE cites 67% when including underemployment and discouraged job seekers. Japan, on the other hand, faces severe labour shortages projected to reach six million by 2030. MOL sees Kenyan talent as a bridge to solve both challenges. So far, MOL has connected five Kenyan professionals to Japanese companies under the “Engineer/Specialist” visa category.
4. Kenyan Talent Is More Than a Workforce Gap-Filler
Kenyan professionals bring unique strengths:
- High education rates: 15% enrolment in higher education, second highest in Sub-Saharan Africa.
- Strong language skills: Ranked 19th globally in English proficiency, with many multilingual speakers. Swahili pronunciation is close to Japanese, aiding fluency.
- Cultural similarities: Diligence, hospitality, respect for elders, and sociability align well with Japanese workplace culture.
- Africa business expansion: Kenyan employees can help Japanese firms expand into Africa by leveraging local networks.
5. Conclusion — Talent Acquisition Will Shape Japan’s Future
Competition for Southeast Asian talent is intensifying among advanced nations. Japan must not only “hire” but also
become a country that foreign workers choose to work in.
By 2050, one in four people worldwide will be African. MOL believes now is the time to build a foundation for African
talent in Japanese companies.
Introducing Kenyan professionals is not just about solving immediate labour shortages — it strengthens Japan’s long-term
global presence and deepens ties between Africa and Japan.
References | Notes
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and may vary depending on local regulations and operational conditions. Please contact MOL or relevant authorities for case-specific guidance.