Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU) Secretary General Francis Atwoli has warmly welcomed the recent announcement to raise the minimum wage across various sectors by six percent. Atwoli described the wage increase as a significant step toward improving the livelihoods of workers, especially in the face of rising economic challenges.
“COTU (K) is pleased to acknowledge this increase, which comes as a result of our formal request made during the Labour Day celebrations earlier this year,” Atwoli stated. He emphasized the importance of the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection ensuring compliance with the new wage rates to benefit all workers effectively.
This adjustment reflects the government’s ongoing commitment to addressing the challenges faced by employees amidst rising inflation and the increasing cost of living. Atwoli reaffirmed COTU’s dedication to enhancing the rights and welfare of unionized workers across Kenya.
In light of the wage increase, COTU (K) urged affiliated unions and their members to re-negotiate their respective Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs) promptly. “We advise our affiliates to negotiate for a two-year cycle CBA, allowing flexibility to accommodate changing economic dynamics,” he stated.
The wage increase follows Labour Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua’s announcement, who confirmed the updates to the Regulation of Wages for both the General and Agricultural sectors. This development is set to directly benefit workers nationwide, promising better working conditions as COTU continues its advocacy for workers’ rights and fair labor practices.
