This archive report was first published on 18 September 2019.
On September 18, 2019, Wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka addressed a conference in Nairobi, highlighting the need for greater representation of women in top labour movement positions in Kenya.
According to Mr Musyoka, less than 30% of women occupy key union leadership roles, including the Kenya National Union of Teachers (Knut) and the Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU).
Mr Musyoka emphasized the importance of finding a balance between workers' rights and employer rights, urging trade unions to foster closer relationships with employers to avoid excessive combativeness.
He also noted that denial of employee rights can lead to low morale, productivity issues, and even industry crippling costs due to excessive demands for awards.
Mr Musyoka further stressed the need for adherence to court orders and mediation in resolving labour disputes, citing the ongoing impasse between the Teachers Service Commission and Knut as an example.
COTU Secretary-General Francis Atwoli echoed Mr Musyoka's sentiments, emphasizing the importance of social dialogue in managing changes in the world of work and the need for all partners to participate fully in the process.
