Labour Cabinet Secretary (CS) Alfred Mutua on Thursday, September 25, announced that the Kenyan government is in the advanced stages of finalising instruments to ratify the International Labour Organisation (ILO) Conventions 189 and 190, following the tragic death of a domestic worker in Kilimani, Nairobi.
The CS revealed that the move is aimed at strengthening the protection of domestic workers’ rights, ensuring fair wages, rest, social security, and protection from workplace violence and harassment.
Mutua, who was addressing the press in Nairobi, stated that the Ministry of Labour is working closely with the National Police Service (NPS) and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to ensure a thorough probe into the killing of the worker identified as Zeituni.
He affirmed that investigations are in advanced stages, and those found culpable for the heinous act will be brought to justice.
“The Ministry is working closely with the National Police Service and the DCI to ensure that thorough investigations are carried out and that justice is served without delay,” Mutua said.
He strongly condemned the murder, noting that the incident exposed the grim reality of discrimination, exploitation, and violation of the rights of low-ranking workers in Kenya.
ILO Convention 189 provides for decent work for domestic workers, while Convention 190 aims to eliminate violence and harassment in the world of work.
Mutua stressed that Kenya’s ratification of these conventions would be a major milestone in safeguarding vulnerable workers.
Civil society groups have welcomed the government’s commitment, urging for speedy ratification and robust enforcement mechanisms to prevent similar tragedies.
The death of Zeituni has sparked national debate on the treatment of domestic workers and calls for better protections.
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