Right to Fair and Good Wages

KAI Supports the Right to Fair Wages

The Kenya Association of Intellects (KAI) believes that every worker deserves fair, timely, and just compensation for their labour. A fair wage is not just a matter of economics—it is a matter of dignity, justice, and human rights.

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Constitutional and Legal Basis

• Article 41, Constitution of Kenya (2010): Every worker has the right to fair remuneration, reasonable working conditions, and to join and participate in trade unions.
• Employment Act, 2007: Provides for minimum terms and conditions of employment, including payment of wages.
• International Labour Organisation (ILO) Standards: Recognise fair wages and equal pay for equal work as fundamental labour rights.

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Why the Right to Fair Wages Matters

• Economic Justice: Ensures workers are not exploited and can meet basic needs such as food, shelter, and healthcare.
• Equality: Closes the gap between low-income and high-income earners.
• Productivity: Motivated workers are more productive and contribute to national growth.
• Social Stability: Fair wages reduce poverty, inequality, and unrest in society.

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Challenges in Kenya

Despite legal protections, many Kenyan workers still face:

• Underpayment and delayed wages by employers.
• Discrimination in pay, particularly against women and marginalised groups.
• Lack of enforcement of minimum wage laws.
• Exploitation in the informal sector, where most Kenyans work.
• Weak bargaining power among ununionised or casual workers.

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KAI’s Commitment

KAI is committed to promoting the right to fair wages by:

1. Advocacy – Pushing government and employers to uphold constitutional and legal wage protections.
2. Legal Support – Offering legal guidance and support to workers facing wage violations.
3. Awareness – Educating workers about their rights under labour laws.
4. Monitoring and Accountability – Tracking wage compliance, especially in vulnerable sectors.
5. Policy Engagement – Supporting reforms that strengthen wage enforcement mechanisms and social protections.

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Conclusion

Fair wages are the foundation of justice in the workplace and the economy. Without them, workers remain trapped in cycles of poverty and exploitation.

The Kenya Association of Intellects (KAI) calls on government, employers, and civil society to work together to ensure that every Kenyan worker is guaranteed fair and just compensation for their labour.

When wages are fair, work has dignity. When work has dignity, society prospers.