No place for abuse: Regulator cracks down on rogue hotel managers

From left: Tourism Regulatory Authority (TRA) Chairman Benjamin Washiali, Director General Norbert Talam and Board member Alex Munyao during a presser in Nairobi on Wednesday, February 12, 2025. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

Tourism Regulatory Authority (TRA) has intensified its crackdown on labour violations in the hospitality industry, warning that establishments mistreating employees will face stern action.

The move follows an investigation into Taita Hills Resort & Spa and Salt Lick Game Lodge, where the general manager was found guilty of verbal and physical harassment, racial discrimination and denying staff their rights.

TRA has recommended the cancellation of General Manager Sanjeev Kumar's work permit after confirming allegations of abuse, including an incident captured on CCTV.

The authority said Kumar admitted to verbally abusing and physically confronting staff in December 2023 but claimed the matter was resolved after an apology.

"The behaviour exhibited by the general manager is a departure from the professionalism expected of an expatriate required to transfer skills to local personnel," said TRA Chairman Benjamin Washiali.

The investigation found the hotels lacked a human resource policy, leaving employees without contracts, extending probation periods unlawfully and basing promotions on favouritism.

The facilities had also failed to appoint a qualified understudy to take over the manager's role, as required by immigration laws.

TRA has directed the hotel's directors to submit a human resource policy, issue contracts to employees, process pending promotions and appoint a qualified general manager within 30 days.

"Tourism establishments mistreating staff will face stern action," noted Washiali, adding that TRA will enhance labour assessments in its routine audits to address malpractice and uphold professionalism in the sector.