State roots for maritime workers' rights, fair pay
Business
By
Sofia Ali
| Sep 18, 2024
The government has committed to safeguarding maritime workers' rights, including fair wages.
Early this year, the government unveiled an ambitious plan to employ over 200,000 seafarers by 2027, increasing the current workforce by approximately 11,600.
However, the industry continues to face various challenges, including the well-being of maritime workers.
He emphasised the importance of greater involvement of seafarers' unions and councils in safeguarding workers' rights. "Many members remain unaware of the Seafarers Wages Council and the Seafarers Union based in Mombasa," Kaituko noted. "These organizations must take a proactive role in tackling the pressing issues facing our maritime workforce."
Representatives for seafarers, including Lameck Njora, Edwin Mwenga, and Margaret Gitau, raised concerns over workplace discrimination, financial literacy, and high unemployment rates.
READ MORE
Junior Starlets players dominate Kenya U20 team
Why Coast traders want Senate to throw out Tobacco Bill
Warrant of arrest issued against billionaire Joginder Singh in Sh400m land case
Majority of Kenyans dissatisfied with new CBC curriculum, Infotrak survey
Wetter season expected across Horn of Africa, IGAD Warns
Orphan who benefited from Ebenezer scholarship excels in KCSE
Kenya's 'night runner': How a rural ritual with links to witchcraft became an urban staple
Museveni: still seeking power after 40 years of rule
Phasing out 8-4-4: KCSE exams enter final stretch
Concern over growing inequality as 47,798 candidates score E
Mr Gitau highlighted that many seafarers face challenges related to extended periods away from home, complicating their financial management, while Mr Njora noted that some seafarers entrust their earnings to relatives or attempt to invest in local businesses, only to find these investments failed upon their return, leading to distress and, in some cases, depression. To combat these financial issues, institutions like HFC are developing tailored financial products aimed at promoting saving and investment among seafarers. "We want to foster a culture of savings and investment," said PS Kaituko. "With appropriate financial guidance, seafarers can significantly benefit from their earnings."