Amidst the ailing economic state of the country, Francis Atwoli-the Secretary General of Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU) has pleaded with President William Ruto to consider strategizing a moderate wage increment for all workers to help them sustain themselves.
Atwoli,while addressing congregants at Uhuru Gardens in Nairobi during the Labour Day celebrations on Monday, told the Head of State that this is the only bullet available to help relieve Kenyans from sufferings imposed on their lives amid high cost of living.
He empathized that the move will reenforce countless households as the government is underway with plans to completely flatten the selling economic curve.
On behalf of Kenyan labourers, Atwoli explained himself out that the wage increment won’t be destructive to government’s plans considering the fact that their involvement in restructuring the country’s economy is pivotal.
He said:
“I know we are in both political and economic quagmire but bearing in mind that all of us including workers are involved in the restructuring of the economy.”
“Your incentive to these workers is only in one form, a consideration of a moderate general wage increase.” He added.
In regards to the National Social Security Fund (NSSF) and National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) which formed a vast part of the speech of the president, Atwoli praised Ruto for his handful support to NSSF and NHIF, stressing that they will help secure the lives of millions of Kenyans.
“COTU thanks you for appointing a new chair and a board of the NHIF. We are sure that they will lead the board into making new reforms and making sure that NHIF is closer to its mandate and assists Kenyans from all shades.” He continued to laud the Head of State.
Turning focus to NSSF, the COTU SG noted that it will curb old-age poverty for retired persons since the contributions will be sufficient to sustain them.
“We are glad that we are part and parcel of the 6% and we know for sure that when we exit from being employees we will be able to benefit from that,” he said