Unionisation initiative by Water Sector workforce
New Union in Water Sector Signs Recognition Agreement
The Water Services Workers Union (WASWU) has taken a significant step forward in its mission to support the delivery of safe and reliable water services, as well as promote industrial harmony among workers in the sector. On Monday, WASWU signed its first recognition agreement with Nakuru Water and Sanitation Services Company.
The union, formed by over 70 workers in Nakuru with a target of 8,000 workers across both the private and public water sectors, was registered in April after identifying a gap in handling issues related to workers in the sector. Joseph Githinji, the stakeholder manager of NAWASCO, stated that the recognition agreement will aid in negotiating wages and working conditions.
Matilda Kimetto, WASWU Secretary General, signed the agreement, calling for decent working conditions in the water sector. The agreement will cover issues such as wages, working conditions, and other employment terms. Githinji also mentioned that the agreement will enable staff to enjoy a collective bargaining agreement.
The formation of WASWU was prompted by the dissatisfaction of workers who felt unrepresented by their previous union. Executive Makokha, who works with NAWASCO, expressed his intention to help other companies emulate their union. He emphasized that WASWU aims to be a union that has the interest of its members at heart, understanding the challenges they face and working to improve their performance.
Makokha urged workers' representatives to avoid scandals and to be role models in sharing wisdom with workers to understand their rights. He also expressed his hope that WASWU would help other companies in the water sector to form similar unions.
The water sector has faced numerous challenges such as delayed salaries, privatization, casualization, political interference, statutory deduction, and the victimization of unionized employees. The signing of the agreement is a historical step in strengthening social dialogue within the sector.
With the agreement, WASWU will commence negotiations for a collective bargaining agreement. The union aims to promote industrial harmony and support the delivery of safe and reliable water services to the people. The success of WASWU in Nakuru will serve as a model for other water sector unions across the country.
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