Sending Ksh 20, 000 home from Saudi Arabia is better than slaving for Ksh 7,000 per month for Kilimani mums - RUTO’s advisor declares

Monday, November 17, 2025 - David Ndii, Chairperson of the Presidential Council of Economic Advisors, has strongly defended the wages earned by Kenyans working in Saudi Arabia, insisting that they offer far better prospects than the low-paying jobs available locally.

In a post on his official X account on Monday, November 17^th, 2025, Ndii said remitting Ksh 20, 000 monthly to support family is far more beneficial than earning Ksh 7,000 in Nairobi’s Kilimani suburb.

“Sending 20k per month home to support family. Better than slaving for 7k a month for Kilimani mums,” he wrote.

Ndii was responding to a social media user who questioned the value of Kenyans relocating to Saudi Arabia to earn Ksh 35, 000.

His remarks came shortly after Saudi Arabia announced a new minimum wage for all employees.

In a statement released by the Kenyan Embassy in Riyadh on Sunday, November 16^th, 2025, workers were urged to confirm implementation of the new rates with their employers.

“The Embassy wishes to inform all Kenyan workers that, effective February 2026, the Government of Saudi Arabia will implement a minimum salary of SAR 1,000 per month for all workers.”

“This is in line with ongoing labour reforms following changes to the Kafala system,” the Embassy said.

The adjustment means Kenyan workers in Saudi Arabia will earn at least Ksh 34,455 monthly beginning next year.

The Kenyan DAILY POST