An Overview of Industrial Relations in Kenya

Abstract

The development of labour law in Kenya evolved in the voluntary tradition to what is today arguably one of the best institutionalized labour market governance systems in Africa. However, the persistence of labour unrest in various sectors of the Kenyan economy points to the need for a reexamination of the existing labour code in a bid to address areas of weakness for sound economic development. This paper traces the development of labour relations in Kenya from the pre independence period. Key milestones are discussed and examined in the light of best practices elsewhere in the world. It is the expectations of the authors that this paper will provide useful insight to labour officials both in government and business organizations in Kenya and elsewhere.

Key words: labour laws, industrial labour relations, collective bargaining, tripartism