The Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU) Secretary General Francis Atwoli claims he has signed over 44 Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs) this year.

Speaking during this year’s Labour Day celebrations at Uhuru Gardens in Nairobi, Atwoli said that labour negotiations have moved away from advocacy, agitation and street protests to dialogue between workers and employees.

“Today’s trade union movement has changed from agitation to scientific dialogue. That is why you do not hear us on newspapers, that is why you don’t hear us fighting. We are busy with employers in boardrooms negotiating for good terms and conditions of service for our members. In my own union this year I signed more than 44 CBAs to cushion workers from the cost of living,” Atwoli said.

“We have moved from issues of advocacy, agitation and songs to impress upon dialogue between us and employers. We research through our COTU education and Economic Research Department to any enterprise before we engage the employer.”

Atwoli on pay increase

Atwoli also called for a 22.5 per cent pay increment for workers, citing the depreciating shilling. He said the pay rise would reduce unemployment levels in the country.

“Anything that comes from the mouth of the president is law. We ask that he gives us a 22.5 per cent increment or whatever he has in his pockets,” Atwoli said.

Atwoli also pledged support for the Affordable Housing Initiative by the government, calling on the government to give workers priority when it comes to allotment.

“We as workers will support affordable housing financially, when it comes to allotment, I hope workers will benefit from the new venture. The only problem with our country is…we Kenyans are not used to paying taxes,” he added.

The Labour Day celebrations went on amid the doctors’ strike which has lasted for 49 days, with doctors vowing to press on.

In a statement on May 1, 2024, KMPDU Chairman Dr Adbi Mwachi said the government has been focused on misplaced priorities which have relegated the lives of Kenyans to the sidelines while leaders chase after selfish gains.

“On this Labour Day, as we stand in solidarity and reflect on the value of our work, we find ourselves amidst a tough situation. The struggle and sacrifices made by doctors in this ongoing industrial action, now in its second month, are undeniable. The government’s misplaced priorities have relegated the lives of Kenyans to the sidelines while leaders chase after selfish gains,” Mwachi stated.

According to Mwachi, the strike is a deep-rooted desire for transparency and justice, which he said will continue until what he termed as deception by the government is done away with.

“It’s a painful truth that deception has crept into the fabric of our society. As we take a stand, let it be known that our actions reflect a deep-rooted desire for transparency and justice. The sacrifices made by our top leaders underscore our commitment to this cause. We have given our sweat and tears and are prepared to give even more, including our blood, if necessary, to rectify this deception,” he added.