Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2009, published 99th ILC session (2010)

Forced Labour Convention, 1930 (No. 29) - Kenya (Ratification: 1964)

Articles 1, paragraph 1, and 2, paragraph 1, of the Convention. Compulsory labour in connection with the conservation of natural resources. For many years, the Committee has been referring to sections 13 to 18 of the Chief’s Authority Act (Cap. 128), as amended by Act No. 10 of 1997, according to which able-bodied male persons between 18 and 50 years of age may be required to perform any work or service in connection with the conservation of natural resources for up to 60 days in any year. The Committee expressed the firm hope that the necessary measures will be taken to repeal or amend these provisions, in order to bring legislation into conformity with the Convention.

The Committee previously noted the Government’s indication in its report that the task force on the review of labour laws had addressed the issue of compulsory labour required by the Chief’s Authority Act (Cap. 128). The Government also indicated that the Chief’s Authority Act was to be replaced by the Administrative Authority Act. In its latest report, the Government undertakes to send a copy of the Administrative Authority Act, as soon as it is adopted.

While noting this information, the Committee trusts that the Administrative Authority Act, which is intended to replace the Chief’s Authority Act, will be adopted in the near future and that the legislation will be brought into conformity with the Convention. It asks the Government to supply a copy of the Administrative Authority Act as soon as it is adopted.