Uhuru Pushes for Free Movement of Labor, Goods and Capital Across Africa

President Uhuru Kenyatta on Wednesday urged African labor unions to promote free movement of labor, goods and capital across the continent.

Addressing the 42nd General Council of the Organisation of African Trade Union Unity (OATUU) which was held in Nairobi yesterday, Kenyatta said that in support of Oatuu initiatives, the Kenyan Government will donate an annual grant of Sh. 20 million to the organization.

Further to this, the president announced that his administration has eliminated Non-Tariff barriers between Kenya and other East African countries.

“It is very sad and disheartening to see our sons and daughters lose lives while crossing the Mediterranean and get humiliated in foreign lands because Africans cannot come together and create opportunities for the future,” said President Kenyatta. “We are not rivals. We must learn that our solidarity will bring prosperity.” he added.

The President also made comments on the recent xenophobic attacks in South Africa and some of the African countries and stated that Kenyans understand migrant labor empowers rather than inhibit economic success.

“Kenyans understand that businesses and investments from our African brothers and sisters within our borders bring vibrancy and vitality to our economy. At the same time, it brings opportunities for Kenyans to economically enhance themselves.” he noted.

Speaking at the conference, Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU) Chairman Francis Atwoli urged the President to try and improve the wages of Kenyan workers.

“Next labour day, we are looking forward to his excellency taking measures to adjust the minimum wage bill to the level that will better the welfare of workers,” said Mr Atwoli.

In response, Mr. Kenyatta said for workers’ wages to increase, trade unions must ensure industrial unrest is non-existent.

“A stable market where industrial relations are cordial, will allow African nations to strengthen local businesses and attract foreign investment. Industrial antagonism is bad for business,” he said.