Give workers something to smile about today

 

Kenya Union of Nutritionists and Dieticians (KUNAD) led by Secretary General Michael Odero (2nd right) after issuing a seven days strike strike notice. [Collins Oduor, Standard]

Today marks yet another Labour Day, a day when workers are supposed to celebrate the progress and achievements in the previous year. However, even as Kenyans mark this day in their own styles, a lot of things have conspired to take away the shine expected on such a day.

Labour Day comes at a time of torrential rains that continue to wreak havoc across the nation. Many people have been displaced from their homes by floods.

Roads have been destroyed, bridges swept away and lives lost yet there is no respite in sight.

The rains have also forced a postponement in the reopening of schools until next week.

Workers have nothing to celebrate. Post Covid-19 effects and a non-performing economy have resulted in massive job losses as many companies either close shop or relocate to other countries. 

The workers’ purchasing power has been seriously eroded. Their earnings continue to shrink, the cost of living remains high even as taxation takes whatever little is left of their earnings.

Workers can barely make ends meet, which negates former International Labour Organisation Director General Juan Somavia contention in 1999 that “decent work is productive work in which the workers’ rights are protected, which generates an adequate income with adequate social protection”. 

As President William Ruto addresses the workers from Uhuru Gardens today, he should consider their plight, bearing in mind that a contented workforce is the engine that will propel this country forward and lead to the realisation of Vision 2030. 

Three things could assuage agitated workers today. First, Ruto should increase both the minimum and general wages to cushion workers against the high cost of living and depressed earnings.

Secondly, by assuring civil servants that his government will not scrap permanent and pensionable terms of service as envisaged by Public Service Cabinet Moses Kuria, he will earn the trust of workers and Kenyans in general.

Finally, the general labour unrest being witnessed in the country should be addressed urgently. This can be achieved by listening to and protecting workers' unions.