Kenya and the U.S. Ink Agreement to Boost Labor Conditions and Employee Well-being

Kenya’s Labour and Social Protection Cabinet Secretary Dr. Alfred Mutua teamed up with the US Undersecretary for the Bureau of International Labor Affairs, Thea Mei Lee, to seal a labour cooperation deal. The pact, formalized on October 28, 2024, promises to introduce top-notch labour practices to Kenya courtesy of the US.

In a bid to bolster workers’ rights and uplift labour conditions, Kenya inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the United States Department of Labour. This document aims to refine labour standards and amplify workers’ welfare across the board.

Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua emphasized the shared resolve with the United States to uplift worker welfare and spur inclusive economic progress by making unenviable working conditions a thing of the past. The agreement highlights a mutual dedication to fostering improved labour settings and safeguarding workers’ rights.

Deputy Undersecretary Thea Mei Lee, spearheading the U.S. delegation, underlined the imperative of workers’ rights as essential to a thriving democracy.

The MoU crafts a roadmap for cooperation in pivotal sectors like occupational safety, health regulations, eradicating child and forced labour, and crafting robust social protection systems.

Mutua voiced commitment to integrating the cream of American labour practice, particularly in cultivating harmonious labour relations and enforcing health protocols at the workplace. “Our mission with this pact is cementing occupational safety and health as our beacon, shaping a safe, sound workspace for all Kenyan workers,” he declared.

He also noted that the MoU aligns seamlessly with Kenya’s strategies to reinforce social safety nets, spike productivity, and champion decent work ethics.

Pivotal issues like revamping compensation frameworks and enhancing unemployment insurance are dissected in the MoU, marking strides towards stable economic growth.

“When workers thrive, productivity skyrockets,” Mutua reflected, highlighting the focus on worker empowerment.

Thea Mei Lee applauded Kenya’s proactive outlook on labour reforms, underscoring how equitable labour policies invigorate democratic ideals. Both nations pledged allegiance to upholding globally acknowledged labour rights and supporting each other’s quest for fair, sustainable labour benchmarks.

Also witnessing the signing process was Shadrack Mwadime, Kenya’s Principal Secretary for the State Department of Labour.

Edited by: Ali Musa

alimusa@axadletimes.com

Axadle international–Monitoring

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