Kakuzi PLC an agri-business firm, emerged the overall Winner in Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Practice in the Agricultural Sector at the National Annual Occupational Safety and Health Awards 2024.
The farm secured the award during the World Day for Safety and Health at Work Celebrations, held at Nyayo Gardens in Nakuru County on April 28th, 2024.
 The event was organized by the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection through the Directorate of Occupational Safety and Health Services and aimed to recognize companies that have excelled in mainstreaming occupational health and safety at their workplaces.
“With a workforce of over 3500 employees, our commitment to developing employee safety remains steadfast. Today’s award reaffirms our dedication to prioritizing this cause. As we observe the risks of extreme weather conditions, especially in Kenya where heavy rains and floods are prevalent, we urge all to exercise caution and keep safe. Our aim is to continuously develop working practices that safeguard ourselves and others from injuries while promoting productivity and technology in our workplaces, “expressed Chris Flowers, Managing Director of Kakuzi Plc.
The award comes after an assessment done by the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection covering workplace risk assessments, workplace hazard identification and control, accidents and incidents prevention, control, management and reporting and the general workplace safety culture among other criteria.
Kakuzi implemented the targeted measures to achieve its 2024 OSH targets which were part of the assessed areas and therefore emerged as the winners.
“The theme of this year’s World Day for Safety and Health at Work was “Impacts of Climate Change in Occupational Safety and Health,” underscores the pressing need to address emerging challenges in workplace safety amid changing environmental conditions. I urge all organizations and businesses to prioritize the safety and well-being of all individuals at workplaces. This way, we will build a climate-resilient staff and foster a sustainable workplace, “commented Dr William Kiprono, Secretary of Administration at the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection.
The farm’s success in promoting occupational safety and health is also attributed to its employee’s commitment to embracing safety practices, joint workplace inspections and promoting a safe workplace through active joint safety and health committees.