Kisumu: The Kenya Electrical Trades and Allied Workers Union (KETAWU) has issued a strike notice over what it describes as stalled negotiations on a new Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) for Kenya Power employees. It warns of far-reaching consequences if workers’ demands are not addressed by the end of February.
According to Kenya News Agency, KETAWU National General Secretary Ernest Nadome stated that Kenya Power workers are grappling with the rising cost of living and see the proposed CBA as the only immediate relief available to alleviate their financial burdens. Nadome highlighted issues such as affordable housing, taxation, and levies as significant challenges facing the workers.
Nadome emphasized that while official reports often present a favorable economic outlook, workers in the energy sector are experiencing financial difficulties. He noted that despite reports of economic stability, the disposable income of Kenyans remains low, leaving workers without sufficient financial resources.
During the union’s elections in Kisumu, Nadome announced that the union had reached a firm stance and was putting the government and key state agencies on notice. He warned that if the CBA is not implemented by the end of February, there would be significant consequences, potentially disrupting electricity services across the country.
Nadome, re-elected as the union’s National General Secretary, argued that the financial implications of the proposed agreement are modest compared to Kenya Power’s earnings. He pointed out that the demand for a yearly increment of five billion shillings is minimal relative to the company’s earnings of 34 billion shillings.
KETAWU, which represents workers in the electrical and allied sectors, includes key staff involved in power production and distribution. Nadome stressed that the strike could still be avoided if the CBA is concluded and implemented in time, thus preventing disruptions to electricity services affecting homes, businesses, and public institutions.
