This archive report was first published on 6 May 2020.
As part of measures to combat the spread of the coronavirus, Kenya Ports Authority has significantly reduced its workforce from 6,200 to 4,000. This move, announced on May 6, 2020, aims to minimize the risk of infection among employees.
Transport Cabinet Secretary James Macharia explained that the remaining staff will focus on core functions, including the operation of the port. This includes ensuring that incoming cargo is offloaded and outgoing ships are loaded with cargo. Those working from home will be paid by the Authority, as assured by CS Macharia.
“During the period that they will be working from home, we shall pay them because it is not their fault that we have this situation,” CS Macharia said.
The move comes after the Agency announced on April 14 that 7 of its employees had tested positive for the coronavirus, with 2 fatalities reported. The Cabinet Secretary emphasized that any auxiliary services not critical to the port should stay at home and take leave where possible.
