Silent Suffering: The Dark Reality of Domestic Workers from East Africa in Saudi Arabia

Over the past five years, numerous East African women have faced brutal conditions while working as housekeepers in Saudi Arabia, with many returning home in body bags. Our investigation highlights the systemic exploitation within the domestic labor sector and raises urgent questions regarding the safety of migrant workers.

In a profession often deemed safe in many nations, a chilling reality unfolds for East African women seeking domestic work in Saudi Arabia. An investigation traveling through urban hubs and rural communities in Kenya and Uganda reveals a grave pattern: countless women embark on journeys to work as housekeepers, only to encounter violence, exploitation, and, in some instances, death.

Recent data indicates at least 274 Kenyans—predominantly women—have lost their lives in Saudi Arabia within the last five years, with 55 fatalities reported just last year, marking a troubling rise. Disturbing autopsy reports have surfaced, showcasing discrepancies such as extensive bruising labeled "natural causes" or mysterious deaths resulting from falls under questionable circumstances.

Notably, despite the involvement of well-known recruitment agencies and governmental oversight from Uganda, Kenya, and Saudi Arabia, a dark undertone permeates the domestic worker industry. Influenced by outdated labor regulations, these practices have raised alarms among advocates concerned about worker safety and rights.

As we navigated through personal accounts and examined legal contracts, insights into the lives of over 90 women and their families deepened our understanding of the risks involved. Many enter these roles with dreams of a brighter future, only to find themselves ensnared in a cycle of abuse, leading to devastating consequences.