Save flower sector jobs, workers' union urges State

The Kenya Plantation and Agricultural Workers' Union has expressed concern about the high number of workers that have been sacked by flower farms in Naivasha.PHOTO: COURTESY

A workers' union wants the national government to address issues affecting the flower sub-sector to save jobs.

The Kenya Plantation and Agricultural Workers' Union has expressed concern about the high number of workers that have been sacked by flower farms in Naivasha.

Naivasha Secretary General Ferdinand Juma said over 3,000 workers have lost their jobs since the year began and the number could rise in coming days.

For instance, Karuturi closed down and sent home over 2,500 workers after it was placed under receivership for debts.

"There is a crisis in the flower sector and we are calling on the national government to address the issues raised by farmers before things get worse," said Mr Juma.

Meanwhile, flower farmers have complained about double taxation. They wondered why they were being taxed by both the national and county governments.