Are Job Seekers From Specific Counties Favoured? HR Responds

By Jane Okoth,

Maryam Guyatu and Oliver Lyambila, both graduates from a reputable public university had applied for a position of a nutritionist at United Nations Commission for Refugees UNHCR.

Maryam luckily got the job but sadly Oliver’s application was turned down at the last interview selection.

The difference between the two candidates is that Maryam comes from Marsabit County whereas Oliver hails from Nairobi.

Another interesting fact is that they both had graduated from the university with a degree but Oliver’s grades were much higher compared to Maryam.

Oliver tends to think that there was some kind of bias and favoritism because Maryam comes from a marginalized community.

“The fact that she comes from Marsabit County and I come from Nairobi made her an ideal candidate for the job” he says.

Is it true that people from marginalized communities or some counties are given first priority when selected for job opportunities?

Evelyne Njoroge, a Human Resource Consultant at stoic car track is of the opinion that the skill of the individual matters a lot.

“If you are from a marginalized community yet you do not posses any skills whereas we have a candidate from a developed community, how are we supposed to hire you?” she asks.

She also adds that “The same way I would hire you if you come from a developed region is the same way I would with the other person. In my view we look at the candidate individually to see whether he or she can do the job well.”

But she admits that “though in some organizations they do favor candidates from marginalized communities.

“The reason is maybe looking at the hardship that person experienced getting that education and that is why they are considered.”

In her own words she says that “I do believe that everyone should be given equal opportunities.”

What about the issues of candidates complaining about favoritism and discrimination from recruiters?

“Many organizations at the moment are now working towards balancing of every county as far as employment opportunities are concerned.

She however says, “Most organizations are looking for skills in that particular candidate and it would not matter to them about your tribal background.”

“In my own view if I find a candidate of a particular community to having more skills, I will definitely hire that individual.

As much as we want to hire a Luo ,Kikuyu, Luhya Kisii Kamba, what we want the most is the capability to perform your duties well.” she affirms.

And what is her final advice to job seekers out there?

“As a job seeker, make sure that you posses enough skills for the job because failure to that will spoil your chances,” she advices

And on the issue of Maryam and Oliver, she says that they both acquired the same qualification and degree in school.

“The lady seemed to have higher skills that the organization needed therefore she was offered a position so skill is the way to go,” she concludes.

What’s your take on this issue?

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