Port of Mombasa Workers Win Salary Deal After Prolonged Negotiations

More than 5,000 unionised employees at the Port of Mombasa are set to benefit from improved salaries and allowances following the conclusion of a collective bargaining agreement between the Dock Workers Union (DWU) and Kenya Ports Authority (KPA).

The agreement, covering the 2024–2027 period, brings to an end more than two years of negotiations over workers’ pay and benefits. The deal introduces revised salary scales, enhanced transport allowances and payment of salary arrears dating back to 2024.

According to DWU Secretary-General Sulman Owuor, the agreement was the result of nearly two and a half years of discussions that began under the leadership of his predecessor, Simon Sang.
The new package is expected to enhance employee welfare while supporting smooth operations at Kenya’s busiest seaport.

Under the revised structure, Grade 8 employees will earn basic salaries ranging from Sh92,975 to Sh127,130, while Grade 9 workers will receive between Sh78,635 and Sh98,375. Grade 10 employees will earn basic pay of between Sh53,715 and Sh83,975.

In addition to the salary adjustments, transport allowances have been increased. Grade 8 employees will receive Sh30,000 monthly, Grade 9 workers Sh20,000, while Grade 10 employees will get Sh15,000. House allowances, however, remain unchanged under the agreement.

The union further indicated that arrears accrued from 2024 will be paid once the implementation process is completed, ensuring workers benefit from the deal retrospectively.

The agreement is significant not only for employees but also for the wider maritime sector, given the strategic role played by the Port of Mombasa as Kenya’s principal maritime gateway and a key cargo handling hub for the country and neighbouring states.

DWU says the new arrangement is expected to improve working conditions for employees while contributing to stability in port operations.