Kenyan president announces labour reforms ahead of August 8 elections

Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta has announced some labour reforms including an increase in minimum wage (10,955 Shillings [$106 USD]) by 18 percent.

He also announced to workers on Monday an increase in non-taxable bonuses and overtime to 100,000 Shillings ($970 USD) “to cushion low-income earners”.

“We know that for two straight years, we have not increased the minimum wage. So, after consultation with key stakeholders, I have directed that the minimum wage be increased by 18 per cent,” he said.

“We want to continue doing these things. Give us the opportunity to continue with the good work,” President Kenyatta told workers in reference to the upcoming elections on August 8 which will see him run for his second five-year term.

The president also announced that the government has developed a mobile labour law application to offer access to the laws online and on mobile phones.

“My Administration’s reforms and investments will make us even more attractive to domestic and foreign investors, which will, therefore, produce more jobs,” he added.

Kenyatta’s presidency has seen the economy grow at a steady 5 to 6 percent a year, but faced criticism for not doing more to tackle corruption.

72-year-old Raila Odinga will come up against incumbent Uhuru Kenyatta on August 8 under the banner of the main opposition coalition, the National Super Alliance (NASA).