“I Lost Everything”: How a Fake Travel Agent Destroyed Cynthia Jemutai’s Dream of a Better Life Abroad
The High Cost of Chasing a Dream Abroad
For many young Kenyans, going abroad represents hope, stability, and a chance at a better future. But for Cynthia Jemutai, this dream became a devastating nightmare. Her experience is a powerful reminder of the growing number of fake travel agents in Kenya who prey on the dreams of vulnerable job seekers.
From Cherangany TTI to Heartbreak: Cynthia’s Journey
Cynthia Jemutai had a secure position at Cherangany Technical Training Institute (TTI). Like many others, she dreamed of working overseas to support her family and build a better life. When she met Isaack Barmasai, who claimed to run a reputable travel consultancy in Kenya, she believed her opportunity had finally come.
Selling Land to Fund Her Dream Abroad
To pay the full amount required by the so-called agent, Cynthia’s family made a painful sacrifice—they sold part of their land. Trusting the promise of international employment, they handed over the funds in full.
“I come from a humble background, but I always dreamt of going abroad to change my life,” Cynthia said.
Fake Documents, Broken Promises, and a Farewell Party
After receiving the money, Barmasai began stalling. He claimed delays were due to flight cost increases and employer response times. Still, he attended her farewell party, assuring everyone she was set to travel. He even advised her to resign from her job to prepare.
But once she quit, the silence began. Phone calls became rare. He claimed he was “busy with the airline.”
The Final Blow: Forged Visa, Fake Ticket, and Abandonment in Eldoret
Eventually, Barmasai handed her what appeared to be a visa and a flight ticket—both turned out to be forgeries.
On her supposed travel day, he demanded KSh 24,000 for fuel to drive her to the airport in his Prado. Cynthia’s father gave him the money. They prayed and prepared to say goodbye.
But he never came.
He later told them to meet him in Eldoret, then switched off his phone. With growing doubt, they went to the airline to verify the documents—only to be told the ticket was fake.
Aftermath: Jobless, Homeless, and Public Humiliation
Cynthia returned home broken and humiliated. Having lost her job and her family’s savings, she also became the subject of ridicule in her village.
“People laughed at me. I had to leave. I’m jobless and struggling to raise KSh 15,000 for my daughter’s school fees.”
How to Avoid Travel Scams in Kenya
Her story highlights the importance of verifying travel agents before engaging them. Here are tips to avoid being scammed:
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✅ Verify registration with Kenya’s Directorate of Immigration Services.
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✅ Never pay full fees upfront.
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✅ Cross-check visa and flight bookings directly with embassies or airlines.
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✅ Look for reviews and testimonials from previous clients.
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✅ Avoid agents who discourage involving third parties or who rush you into decisions.
Call to Action: Raise Awareness and Support Victims
Let’s not allow Cynthia’s story to be forgotten. Share this story to warn others. If you’d like to support Cynthia or similar victims, contact us to learn more about how you can help.
📣 Do you have a similar experience or tip on travel fraud in Kenya? Share your story with us.
