The Senate Committee on Labour has launched an investigation into multiple allegations of labour rights violations within Kenya’s Export Processing Zones (EPZ). This follows a formal petition submitted by a group of employees working for various EPZ firms.
In their petition, the workers cited a wide range of grievances, including the denial of their constitutional right to join a union of their choice, discriminatory recruitment practices, sexual harassment, delayed issuance of employment contracts, and ethnic discrimination. They also decried poor working conditions, excessive working hours, and low wages.
The petition underscores serious ethical and legal concerns about employment practices in some EPZ firms. It notes that many employees suffer from health issues caused by exposure to dust and chemicals in inadequately regulated workplaces. These conditions have created a challenging environment that affects both worker welfare and productivity.
One of the firms singled out is Ashton Mombasa Apparel Ltd, where workers attempted to stage a peaceful protest in support of unionisation. The demonstration was reportedly disrupted by police and local authorities at the request of firm management, resulting in the dismissal of 2,000 employees.
Mombasa Apparel (EPZ) Ltd, another firm named in the petition, employs over 4,000 workers. Employees there report ongoing injustices, including denial of leave and sick days, and instances of sexual harassment linked to workplace favouritism.
The Senate Committee’s inquiry aims to hold accountable those responsible for the alleged abuses and to push for the enforcement of labour laws and ethical standards in the EPZ sector. The case has ignited public concern over the exploitation of workers under the guise of industrial growth.
