Dr. Francis Atwoli, the Secretary-General of the Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU), paid a courtesy call on the new Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection, Hon. Dr. Alfred Mutua.
The meeting was aimed at fostering a collaborative relationship to enhance the welfare and interests of Kenyan workers.
During their discussions, Atwoli emphasized the urgent need to implement the 6% wage increase directive announced by President William Ruto during the International Labour Day celebrations on May 1st.
He expressed COTU’s commitment to ensuring that the directive, which he believes should have been gazetted and enacted immediately, is prioritized.
Atwoli remarked, “It remains the position of COTU (K) that this directive ought to have been followed through promptly to ensure Kenyan workers receive the compensation they rightfully deserve.”
The dialogue also extended to the operations of employment agencies, which Atwoli accused of perpetuating modern-day slavery.
He urged the new CS to take decisive action against such practices and suggested that the National Employment Authority (NEA) should be restructured as a department within the Ministry of Labour, rather than operating as an independent agency.
“We must address the issues plaguing employment agencies that compromise the rights and dignity of workers,” Atwoli said. “Making the NEA a department of the Ministry of Labour would enhance oversight and accountability in this vital sector.”
Finally, Atwoli called for strict adherence to social dialogue as a means of strengthening industrial relations in Kenya.
He urged the new Cabinet Secretary to prioritize communication and negotiation between workers and employers to ensure industrial peace and stability in the workforce.
