Cotu secretary general Francis Atwoli /HANDOUT
The Central Organization of Trade Unions (Kenya) (Cotu-K) has praised the government for gazetting the new minimum wage increase announced during this year's Labour Day celebrations.
In a statement issued on Friday, Cotu secretary general Francis Atwoli commended the Cabinet Secretary for Labour and Social Protection Alfred Mutua for giving legal effect to President William Ruto's directive on wage adjustments.
The new wage order provides a 12 per cent increase in the minimum wages of general workers and a 15 per cent increase for agricultural workers. According to Cotu, the adjustment demonstrates the government's recognition of the crucial role workers play in promoting economic growth, productivity and national development.
Atwoli said the wage increase is expected to offer relief to thousands of low-income workers who have been struggling with the rising cost of living.
He said improved earnings would enhance the purchasing power of workers and their families, stimulate domestic demand, and contribute to the country's economic recovery.
“Workers remain the backbone of Kenya's economy, and this wage increment acknowledges their contribution to national development,” Atwoli said.
However, while welcoming the move, Cotu urged the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection to strengthen labour inspection and enforcement mechanisms to ensure employers comply fully with the new wage regulations.
The union expressed concern that some employers may fail to implement the revised wage rates, thereby denying workers the benefits intended by the government. It called for immediate action to monitor workplaces across the country and take appropriate measures against those who violate the wage order.
Cotu further reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with the government, employers, and workers through social dialogue to improve labour relations and working conditions in Kenya.
The organisation pledged to closely monitor the implementation of the wage increase and support initiatives aimed at ensuring every worker receives the wages they are legally entitled to receive.
The new wage adjustments are expected to take effect immediately following their gazettement by the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection.
