Kisumu: The Communication Workers Union of Kenya (COWU-K) has expressed disappointment with the government over delays in reviving Telkom Kenya and raised concerns about the transfer of essential telecommunications infrastructure to private firms. The union cautioned that continued uncertainty, coupled with previous policy decisions, could further weaken the strategic telecommunications company and potentially lead to financial losses for workers.
According to Kenya News Agency, COWU-K General Secretary Benson Okwaro, re-elected during the union’s national elections at Tom Mboya Labour College in Kisumu, emphasized the urgency of securing a strategic investor for Telkom Kenya. Okwaro criticized the lengthy process of finding an investor, which he argued was detrimental to both the company and its employees. He also questioned the decision to transfer transmission stations, originally funded by public resources, to private entities, urging the government to reclaim these assets to enhance Telkom’s competitive edge in the telecommunications market.
The union further urged the government to compensate Telkom Kenya and the Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC) for state-acquired land, suggesting that the funds could be used to modernize outdated equipment and improve competitiveness. Okwaro highlighted the challenges faced by broadcasters using obsolete transmitters and equipment, and the lack of basic tools necessary for effective news coverage.
In addition, COWU-K expressed concern about the delayed pension payments at the Postal Corporation of Kenya and KBC, stressing the need to settle outstanding arrears to protect workers’ rights. While supporting government efforts to modernize the Postal Corporation and attract investors, the union insisted on safeguarding employee benefits during any transitions.
Okwaro underscored the strategic importance of the Postal Corporation in providing universal service delivery, warning against the potential collapse of this vital institution. He pointed out the centrality of post offices in national infrastructure and the detrimental impact of allowing the Postal Corporation to fail.
The union is also expanding its representation to include workers in the digital economy, such as content moderators, digital creators, and call center employees. Okwaro emphasized the union’s preference for dialogue in resolving disputes but affirmed their readiness to take industrial action if necessary, prioritizing tangible outcomes for members over protest frequency.
