Effects of fragmentation of trade unions on collective bargaining in Kenya's hotel industry : a case study of KUDHEIHA and KHANDU

Abstract

This study focuses on the effects of fragmentation of trade Unions on Collective Bargaining in Kenya's hotel industry. The main elements about which information was gathered were KUDHEIHA workers and KHANDU. How splintering of trade unions impact on collective bargaining provided the unit of analysis.

This was a survey research. It involved administering questionnaires to all stakeholders involved in collective bargaining process from the shop floor level to registration of a collective bargaining agreement. Other people involved in Kenya's industrial relations system acted as key informants and were therefore served with structured questionnaires

The study revealed that the main cause of fragmentation of trade unions is poor leadership/management by the union officials. This is compounded by the huge sizes of the general unions like KUDHEIHA, which the officials cannot manage properly.

The study established that weakening financial base, reduced bargaining power of the unions, low capacity to engage in social dialogue are some of the negative effects of fragmentation of trade unions.

This study can go a long way in empowering trade unions through capacity building. It would also help in improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the unions as the officials are going to understand why some members normally leave.