ILO Spearheads Transformative Change in Kenya's Textile Sector: A Paradigm Shift Towards Workplace Compliance and Labour Rights Protection
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- Published: Monday, 10 June 2024 15:30
In a bid to bolster workplace compliance and safeguard labour rights within Kenya's vibrant textile industry, the International Labour Organisation (ILO) has embarked on a transformative journey alongside tripartite partners. Through the All Hands in Kenya (AHK) project, the ILO underscores the pivotal role of robust legislative frameworks and efficient labour market institutions in nurturing productive and harmonious employment ecosystems.
Central to this initiative is the development and implementation of a comprehensive Code of Practice for workplace compliance, facilitated by the ILO in collaboration with key stakeholders including the Federation of Kenya Employers (FKE), the Central Organisation of Trade Unions, and the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection.
This groundbreaking Code of Practice delineates clear definitions and terminologies for grievance handling, providing a roadmap that traces the evolution of grievance mechanisms in Kenya while aligning with relevant legal frameworks and international labour instruments. According to an ILO release, the Code not only encapsulates best practices but also serves as a cornerstone for collective bargaining, fortifying social partnerships and fostering a conducive environment for constructive dialogue.
Recognising the inherent nature of conflicts within employment relationships, the Code of Practice strives to establish robust dispute prevention and resolution mechanisms. By mitigating workplace conflicts and mitigating their adverse repercussions, the Code contributes significantly to cultivating a fair and equitable work milieu.
The institutionalisation of this Code of Practice heralds a significant milestone in the trajectory of workplace compliance within Kenya's textile sector, asserts the ILO. Beyond advocacy and training, the Federation of Kenya Employers (FKE) remains steadfastly committed to tripartite consultations with governmental and labour entities, addressing not only labour market intricacies but also broader economic and social policies.
The concerted efforts of the ILO, in tandem with its tripartite partners, exemplify a paradigm shift towards fostering sustainable development, ensuring dignified livelihoods, and upholding fundamental labour rights within Kenya's textile industry. By championing a culture of compliance and dialogue, this collaborative endeavor lays the foundation for a more resilient and equitable future for all stakeholders involved.