Secretary-General Urges Government to Review Minimum Wage for Kenyan Workers

The General Secretary of the Confederation of Trade Unions (COTU), Francis Atwoli, has called on the government to take immediate action to review and improve the minimum wage for Kenyan workers. The cost of living, particularly rents in Nairobi neighborhoods like Kilimani and Westland, is high and often comparable to European levels. As a result, the minimum wage in cities is often too low to provide a decent standard of living. The minimum wage in Kenya varies considerably depending on the region, industry, and type of work. Here are the current benchmark figures (as of 2024, based on the latest official adjustments). The general minimum wage (for unskilled workers) in Kenya is divided into three regions based on the cost of living: 1. Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kisumu (Urban Areas): - Monthly: Approx. 15,201 - 21,364 KES (Kenyan Shillings) - In Euros (approx.): ~ €100 - €140 (Exchange rate dependent, €1 ≈ 150 KES) 2. Other Towns and Municipalities (e.g., Nakuru, Eldoret): - Monthly: Approx. 12,926 - 18,167 KES - In Euros (approx.): ~ €85 - €120 3. All Other Areas (Rural Regions): - Monthly: Approx. 7,240 - 10,172 KES - In Euros (approx.): ~ €48 - €68 Industry-specific minimum wages apply to many sectors, with separate, sometimes higher, rates (for unskilled, semi-skilled, and skilled workers). Here are some examples: In agriculture, wages range from approximately 9,340 to 14,325 KES per month (depending on the region). In the construction industry, wages range from approximately 12,885 to 20,195 KES per month (depending on the region). The hotel and restaurant industry pays approximately 15,048 to 21,364 KES per month (depending on the region and size of the business). And in the textile and clothing industry, wages range from approximately 12,926 to 18,167 KES per month (depending on the region). Note: Domestic workers (housekeepers, gardeners, etc.) are subject to a separate, lower rate (approximately 4,554 to 7,240 KES per month, depending on the region). This is a common criticism. A few more important points to note. Many unskilled workers in the informal sector are paid by the day. The statutory minimum daily wage for unskilled workers in Nairobi, for example, is around 674 KES (approximately €4.50). The minimum wage is set by the Kenya Wages Council and is usually adjusted every two years. The last major adjustment was in 2022. Many Kenyans, especially those in the informal sector (estimates: over 80% of workers), earn less than the official minimum wage. Compliance and enforcement are often lax in practice. Foreign skilled workers generally earn significantly more than the minimum wage, often according to the international salary standards of their companies or organizations. These are the challenges that COTU has to address. The COTU (Central Organization of Trade Unions) in Kenya is the main national umbrella organization for trade unions, representing over 40 affiliated unions and millions of workers. It advocates for strengthening workers' rights, improving working conditions, and influencing policy. Its core activities include organizing trade unions, resolving disputes, and lobbying for better legislation. COTU aims to improve the social, economic, and political conditions for Kenyan workers across all sectors. It supports trade union organization, structures memberships, and promotes harmonious relations between employers and employees. The organization also manages funds through membership dues and donations to finance its initiatives. In his New Year's address, Atwoli emphasized the urgent need for the government to quickly implement measures to raise the statutory minimum wage, which currently varies depending on location and occupational group. He called on private-sector employers to create a favorable climate for collective bargaining, as this would contribute to improving wages, benefits, and overall working conditions for employees. The statutory minimum wage in Kenya is an important benchmark, but the reality is characterized by large disparities, the informal sector and a lack of enforcement. https://www.kenyans.co.ke/news/119499-cotu-secretary-general-urges-government-review-minimum-wage-kenyan-workers