State reopens three salt companies

By PAUL GITAU KILIFI COUNTY

Three salt manufacturing companies, which had been closed in Magarini, in Kilifi County for flouting labour laws have been reopened.

The companies Kensalt, Krystaline and Kemu Salt Works were closed down three weeks ago after failing to honor a two-weeks ultimatum issued by Labour Minister John Munyes to improve working condition of workers.

Malindi and Magarini districts Occupational and Health Officer, Samuel Mwasambu yesterday said the companies have been allowed to resume operations after fulfilling the requirements.

Mr Mwasambu said the three companies have now purchased protective gears for workers, which include gamboots, gloves and goggles.

Mobile toilets

He added that they have also bought mobile toilets to be located at the salt pans after it emerged that workers were relieving themselves in bushes. Staff will also be provided with sheds and clean drinking water.

The companies labour officer promised to improve salaries of workers.

Mr Munyes, three weeks ago made an impromptu tour of the companies where he came across workers at the firms operating without protective gears prompting him to issue the ultimatum.

Magarini District hosts six salt companies, which produce the commodity for local consumption and export to the Middle East and African countries.

The companies are said generate more than Sh10 billion revenue to the country annually.