University of Nairobi Ends 7-Year Labor Standoff with Historic Dual CBA Signings
In a landmark day for Kenya’s premier academic institution, the University of Nairobi (UoN) has officially resolved a grueling seven-year stalemate by signing historic Internal Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) addendums with two major unions: The Kenya Universities Staff Union (KUSU) and KUDHEIHA.
The twin signing ceremonies, held at the University’s Council Chambers, signal a "new dawn" for the institution, effectively ending years of complex negotiations and industrial uncertainty. The agreements cover the 2017–2021 period, providing long-awaited recognition for both academic and non-teaching staff.
Negotiations were revitalized on August 10, 2024, leading to 18 months of intensive deliberations by the Joint Negotiation Committee. Leadership from both unions characterized the event as a restoration of dignity and labor harmony:
Ag.Vice Chancellor Prof. Margaret Hutchinson adopted a human-centric tone, emphasizing that a university is only as strong as its human resource. "By bringing KUDHEIHA to the table alongside our other unions, we are ensuring that no staff member is left behind in our pursuit of excellence," she stated, adding that the move is vital for maintaining a strike-free environment.
She expressed optimism that because the unions and management now share a mutual understanding, the documents should move swiftly through the SRC approval process, finally bringing the long-sought financial relief to the university's dedicated workforce.
KUSU Secretary General Mr. Peter Waita noted that the signing represents a shift toward transparency and the restoration of trust after members waited seven years for recognition.
KUDHEIHA Secretary General Allan Eboi described the day as a victory for "patience and structured dialogue," securing the rights of workers in the domestic, health, and educational support sectors.
The CBAs address both immediate welfare concerns and long-term administrative protocols; Non-financial provisions such as improved leave policies, health and safety standards, and disciplinary procedures take effect immediately, clearer promotion criteria and alignment of job designations to ensure fair compensation.
Both documents move to the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) for a "No Objection" letter to ensure alignment with national wage guidelines.
Once cleared by the SRC, the agreements will be filed at the Employment and Labour Relations Court, making them legally binding under the Labour Relations Act (2007).
The ceremonies were witnessed by the University Council representatives in the negotiation, signaling total institutional support for the new labor framework. Key attendees included Council Representative Prof. Ayub Gitau, alongside Professors John Mande, and lead negotiators -Moses Nyangito, Winnie Kamau and Kenneth Sawe.
