As Kenya joins the global community to commemorate Labour Day today, it’s a moment to reflect on the state of the labour movement under the Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU).  

Established in 1965 upon the dissolution of the Kenya Federation of Labour and the African Workers’ Congress, COTU has been the cornerstone of workers’ advocacy, representing over four million workers across 47 affiliate unions.  

Under the long-serving leadership of Secretary-General Francis Atwoli, COTU has shaped industrial relations, influenced labour laws, and championed workers’ rights.  

However, its journey is a mixed bag of commendable achievements and glaring shortcomings, raising questions about its effectiveness in serving Kenya’s workforce in a rapidly changing economic landscape. 

COTU’s most significant achievement is its role as a unified voice for Kenyan workers. 

Since its inception, it has advocated for fair labour practices, drawing from a robust legal framework anchored in the Constitution, the Labour Relations Act of 2007, and International Labour Organisation conventions.  

One of COTU’s landmark contributions was its involvement in the tripartite task force that reviewed labour laws in 2001, leading to reforms that entrenched workers’ rights to fair remuneration, reasonable working conditions, and the freedom to strike.  

Article 41 of the Constitution, which guarantees these rights, owes much to COTU’s advocacy. 

The organisation has also been instrumental in securing tangible gains. In 2022, COTU’s negotiations with the government resulted in a 12 per cent minimum wage increase.  

Its international affiliations, including with the ILO and the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC-Africa), have bolstered its capacity to advocate for workers’ rights on a global stage.  

For instance, COTU’s collaboration with the Global Labour Program – Inclusive Futures has advanced disability inclusion in workplaces, promoting equal employment opportunities for marginalised groups. 

COTU’s historical role in Kenya’s political landscape cannot be understated. During the 2002 elections, it allied with NARC to end KANU’s 40-year rule, amplifying workers’ voices in national politics.  

The establishment of the Tom Mboya Labour College in Kisumu, a training hub for trade unionists, remains a lasting legacy of COTU’s commitment to education and capacity building.  

These efforts underscore COTU’s ability to wield influence, both domestically and internationally, to advance workers’ welfare. 

Despite these achievements, COTU’s record is marred by significant failures that have eroded its credibility.  

Chief among them is its apparent disconnect from the modern workforce, particularly informal sector workers who constitute over 80 per cent of Kenya’s labour force.  

COTU’s focus remains on formal-sector employees, leaving millions of casual labourers, street vendors, and gig economy workers without representation. 

Studies suggest that tapping into the informal sector could revitalise trade unionism, yet COTU has been slow to adapt. 

Leadership controversies have further tarnished COTU’s image. Atwoli’s prolonged tenure since 2001 has drawn criticism for stifling democratic renewal within the organisation.  

As we celebrate Labour Day, let us honour the resilience of Kenyan workers while demanding a labour movement that evolves with the times. 

COTU has the foundation to lead this charge, but it must shed its complacency and rediscover its militant roots. The workers deserve nothing less. 

The writer is a Communication Consultant