Kenya National Labour Board and the Wages Council

Overview

  • Act: Labour Relations Act, 2007 (Act No. 14 of 2007)
  • Formed: 2008
  • CEO:

The Kenya National Labour Board and the Wages Council, established under the Labour Relations Act, 2007, aim to promote fair labor practices in Kenya. Their roles include advising the Minister on labor policies, setting minimum wage rates, facilitating collective bargaining, and mediating disputes. They also monitor compliance with labor laws, conduct research, contribute to policy development, and enhance public awareness about labor rights. By fostering collaboration among
stakeholders, they work to create a more equitable and productive labor market in the country.

Functions

  • Advisory Role: The Board advises the Minister of Labour on the formulation of labour policies and legislation, ensuring they align with national development goals and promote equitable employment practices.
  • Wage Setting: It establishes and periodically reviews minimum wage rates across various sectors, taking into account economic conditions, cost of living, and industry-specific factors, to ensure fair compensation for workers.
  • Collective Bargaining Facilitation: The Council plays a crucial role in facilitating collective bargaining negotiations between employers and trade unions, promoting dialogue, and helping to resolve conflicts to foster harmonious labour relations.
  • Dispute Resolution Mechanism: It acts as a mediator in labour disputes, helping to resolve grievances between employers and employees through dialogue and negotiation, thereby preventing industrial actions.
  • Monitoring Compliance: The Board is responsible for monitoring adherence to labour laws and regulations by employers, ensuring that working conditions, wages, and employee rights are respected and upheld.
  • Research and Data Collection: It conducts research on labour market dynamics, collecting and analyzing data on employment trends, wage structures, and labour relations, which informs policy decisions and wage adjustments.
  • Policy Development Contributions: The Council contributes to the development of comprehensive labour policies that promote social justice, economic growth, and worker protection, enhancing overall labour market efficiency.
  • Capacity Building Initiatives: It promotes training programs for employers, employees, and trade unions to enhance their understanding of labour laws, rights, and responsibilities, fostering a culture of compliance and respect in the workplace.
  • Public Awareness Campaigns: The Board undertakes initiatives to educate the public about labour rights, fair employment practices, and the importance of compliance with labour laws, aiming to empower workers and employers alike.
  • Stakeholder Collaboration: The Council collaborates with government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and international bodies to enhance labour standards, share best practices, and align with global labour conventions and agreements.

Important Links

Address & Contacts

  • P.O. Box 40326 – 00100, Nairobi
  • Bishops Road, Social Security House
  • ps@labour.go.ke / info@labour.go.ke
  • +254 (020) 2729801/804-819