Labour Minister Promises 6% Wage Increase by Year-End
Labour and Social Protection Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua has assured Kenyan workers that a proposed 6 percent increase in the minimum wage will be implemented before the end of the year. The announcement follows recent discussions with key stakeholders, including the Federation of Kenya Employers (FKE), represented by President Gilda Odera and Executive Director Jackline Mugo.
Mutua indicated that workers might see the wage adjustment reflected in their payslips as early as October. The minister emphasized the necessity of expediting the gazettement of essential councils, such as the Wages Council, Seafarers Council, Agricultural Workers Council, and Private Security Guards Council, to facilitate the wage increase.
“The economy cannot grow without the growth of the private sector. A shrinking private sector means fewer jobs,” Mutua stated. He urged employers to uphold best practices and prioritize fairness and occupational health for their employees.
In response, the FKE has pledged support for the government’s initiatives to foster labour sector harmony. The federation, representing 70% of employers in Kenya, has committed to providing technical assistance to address labour issues.
Looking ahead, Mutua announced that the government, FKE, and the Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU) will convene quarterly meetings to review labour conditions and address emerging challenges collaboratively.
Accompanying Mutua in the discussions was Shadrack Mwadime, the Principal Secretary for Labour.
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