An analysis of the terms and conditions of employment in the Export Processing Zones: a case study of Athi-river Export Processing Zones (EPZs)

Abstract

The Export Processing Zones (EPZs) are being used by many countries as strategies for employment creation, foreign exchange earning and transfer of technology. In Kenya, the EPls provide both direct and indirect employment opportunities to about 50,000 persons. The purpose of this study was to assess the terms and conditions of employment in the EPZ firms within the Athi-River Zone. Using data collected from eight firms in the zone, it was established that the EPZs have indeed continued to provide employment opportunities to a growing number of people since their inception in 1993. For example, the firms under study contributed about 35 percent of total EPZ employment in 2004. Majority (64 percent) of the workers in the firms were females. Although the high proportion of female employment in the [inns has a positive implication on the impact of the EPZs on women empowerment and poverty reduction in the country, the low wages, nonprovtsion of maternity and sick leaves and the long working hours are negative attributes to women development. The employment conditions In the firms are relatively unfavourable and cannot benefit the women workers. Even though 1110st of the firms in Athi-River have recognized the Tailors and Textile Workers Union, there is no signi ficant difference between the wages and other terms and conditions of employment offered in the unionized firms and those observed by the non-unionized firms. Most (68 percent) of the EPZ workers interviewed are not aware of the existence, provisions, appTication and enforcement mechanisms of the country's core labour laws and lLO provisions. This portends a greater possibility or of the firms were:. Mirage Fashion Wear Ltd .. Rising Sun EP7. Ltd .. Rolex Garments EPZ Ltd .. Global Apparels EPZ (Kenya) LId and Rupa Colton Mills EPZ Ltd. the workers being exploited or their rights being infringed on without noticing the same and/or modalities lor seeking redress. It is, therefore, recommended that measures be put in place to improve the wages and terms and conditions of employment of the workers. An awareness creation campaign should also be mounted to sensitize the workers and employers on the country's labour laws and relevant ILO conventions.