The Federation of Kenya Employers (FKE) has dismissed recent accusations by the Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU) Secretary General Dr. Francis Atwoli, who claimed that employers are hindering the implementation of the new statutory minimum wage.
The remarks were made during a meeting with shop stewards on April 6, where Dr. Atwoli alleged that employers have been a stumbling block in enforcing the Ministry of Labour’s gazetted wage guidelines.In response, FKE Executive Director and CEO Jacqueline Mugo clarified that the federation has consistently supported a lawful, fair, and consultative process in reviewing minimum wages in Kenya.
She emphasized that FKE has actively engaged in the procedures required under the Labour Institutions Act, 2007, which mandates the establishment of Wages Councils to deliberate on wage issues.“These Councils are essential for ensuring that all parties—government, employers, and workers’ unions—are consulted before decisions on minimum wage increments are made,” Mugo said.
She further noted that during the 2024 Labour Day celebrations, President William Ruto directed the Ministry of Labour to initiate a process for increasing the minimum wage by not less than six percent. However, the General and Agricultural Wages Councils were only reconstituted and gazetted in September 2024.
Following this, the tripartite partners, including FKE, held consultations and reached a consensus on the new wage structure, which was officially published on October 7, 2024. FKE then issued an advisory on October 14, urging employers to comply with the revised minimum wages effective November 1, 2024.
FKE reiterated its commitment to promoting industrial harmony, economic growth, and fair labor practices, urging COTU to engage in constructive dialogue grounded in truth and legal frameworks for the benefit of all stakeholders.
