Empowering Voices: Unraveling the Journey of African Migrant Domestic Workers to the Arab World is an interdisciplinary research project that has explored the lived experiences of African female domestic workers migrating to Jordan and Lebanon. Drawing on a multi-dimensional methodology, including surveys, interviews, fieldwork in both origin countries (Kenya and Ethiopia) and destination contexts, workshop consultations, and collaborative team processes, the project has uncovered the layered challenges faced by migrant domestic workers.

Through detailed mapping of deployment systems, legal frameworks, and protection services, the research offers critical visual and narrative insights into the migration journey. The findings shed light on the structural conditions shaping vulnerability and resilience, and contribute to a deeper understanding of the intersections between gender, labour, and mobility. Ultimately, the project advances grounded, feminist perspectives to inform advocacy, policy, and transnational solidarity efforts in the field of labour migration.

Empowering Voices was led by Hakoura for Research and Educational Programs in partnership with Umoja wa Wawezeshaji KIOO, and the Institute of Rural Development Planning at the University of Dodoma.

The research team included:

• Dr. Khalid Suliman
• Ms. Majd Hammad
• Dr. Edward Saimon
• Ms. Tarikawit Fikadu
• Ms. Peggy Nyambura

Download the Empowering Voices: Unraveling the Journey of African Migrant Domestic Workers to the Arab World position paper below.