| dc.description.abstract | This study investigates how emergent labour related disputes experienced by informal sector workers are resolved by Kamukunji jua kali workers in determining their employment terms and conditions. The study is based on both primary and secondary data. Secondary data was obtained through reviewing relevant literature whilst primary data was collected through in-depth interviews with purposefully identified case studies and key informants. A scoping exercise preceded the indepth case studies.
The broad objective of the study was to investigate how emergent labour related disputes experienced by informal sector workers were resolved and whether these informal workers have a voice when it comes to labour related matters. This information was gathered using a checklist of issues that guided the discussions during the face to face interviews.
The findings of the study indicate that various challenges are experienced by informal sector workers at their places of work. These challenges range from lack of recognition, minimal employment benefits, unregulated wages and work conditions, as well as and working hours that do not have any defined pattern as compared to those in the formal sector. These give rise to disputes ranging from encroachment into other informal workers' spaces, poor contract management and disputes on payment of wages as well as theft by employees and illegal broking. Whenever a dispute occurs there is recourse to resolve it so that the workers can continue earning a living. The study shows that labour contracts in the informal sector are purely based on trust which can easily be compromised.
The findings indicate that informal processes of arbitration in emerging disputes are adopted by these workers and these informal systems of arbitration have evolved and created an appeal system that is acceptable by majority ofthe informal workers. These mechanisms have been institutionalized mostly by the officials of the Kamukunji Jua Kali Workers Association, Kamukunji Location Chief and the Police, The association has attempted to reorganize and strengthen its mandate over time by introducing rules of engagement that are binding to all workers including those who are not yet registered with the association. With proper coordination, such an informal organization can act as a platform for advocacy and lobbying the Government for recognition of informal workers.
In line with the findings, the study recommends that the Kamukunji jua kali and (other informal) workers' association(s) need to be supported through capacity building on labour matters so as to broaden their mandate, to not only operate as business entities but also act as workers voices articulating labour issues. This can be achieved through participation of informal workers in policy making processes on matters affecting the informal sector. | en_US |
