The Employment and Labour Relations Court (ELRC) Judges Annual Conference, a key event in Kenya's judicial calendar, was recently inaugurated by Chief Justice Martha Koome, in Naivasha. The event, highlighted by the participation of distinguished guests in the labour sectoe including Ms. Jacqueline Mugo, Executive Director and CEO of the Federation of Kenya Employers (FKE), underscored the pivotal role of judiciary in shaping the landscape of employment and labor relations in Kenya.
Ms. Mugo’s opening remarks set the tone for a conference aimed at marrying judicial prudence with the realities of economic development and labour standards. She emphasized FKE’s commitment to promoting fair labour practices, sustainable economic growth, and the advancement of international labor standards. By engaging with a broad spectrum of stakeholders, FKE positions itself as a crucial player in the dialogue on labor employment and social policy, aiming to ensure that regulations support economic vitality while safeguarding workers' rights.
The conference also highlighted the importance of social dialogue in resolving labor disputes, with Ms. Mugo appreciating the ELRC’s role in promoting court-annexed mediation and conciliation. She stressed the judiciary's role in innovative legal interpretations that keep pace with the changing labor landscape, including addressing the complexities of unionization and the constitutionality of work-related issues.
In her remarks, Ms. Mugo also touched upon the future of work, underscoring the significance of technological advancements and the gig economy. She pointed to the government's initiatives aimed at leveraging the digital economy for job creation, emphasizing the potential of platform work and the gig economy to transform employment and workspaces.
The ELRC Judges Annual Conference, through its discussions and deliberations, stands as a crucial platform for shaping a judicial approach that supports economic development, upholds labor rights, and navigates the complexities of the modern workplace.
Click here to access the full speech by Ms. Jacqueline Mugo, Executive Director and CEO, FKE.