The Tourism Regulatory Authority (TRA) has intensified its crackdown on labour violations in Kenya’s hospitality sector, warning that hotels and resorts that mistreat employees will face severe consequences. This follows an investigation into allegations of mistreatment at Taita Hills Resort & Spa and Salt Lick Game Lodge, where the general manager was found guilty of abuse and other unethical practices.
The investigation uncovered disturbing instances of verbal and physical harassment, racial discrimination, and the violation of employee rights. The general manager, Sanjeev Kumar, was found guilty of these offenses, including an incident captured on CCTV. He admitted to verbally and physically abusing employees in December 2023 but claimed that the issue was resolved after an apology.
TRA Chairman Benjamin Washiali emphasized that such behavior is unacceptable, especially from an expatriate hired to transfer skills and promote professional development among local personnel. “The behaviour exhibited by the general manager is a departure from the professionalism expected of an expatriate required to transfer skills to local personnel,” Washiali stated.
The investigation also found that the hotels lacked a human resource policy, leaving employees without formal contracts. Additionally, the establishments had unlawfully extended probation periods, failed to follow proper promotion procedures, and ignored legal requirements for appointing a local understudy to replace expatriate managers when necessary.
As a result of the investigation, TRA has recommended the cancellation of Kumar’s work permit and has directed the hotel’s directors to take immediate corrective action. The measures include:
Implementation of a Human Resource Policy – The hotels must establish clear guidelines to protect employee rights.
Issuance of Employment Contracts – All staff members must receive formal contracts to ensure job security and prevent exploitative practices.
Processing of Pending Promotions – The facilities must ensure that promotions are based on merit rather than favoritism.
Appointment of a Qualified General Manager – A professional and experienced manager must be appointed within 30 days to replace the outgoing expatriate.
Washiali stressed that tourism establishments mistreating their workers will face harsh penalties. He also noted that TRA will increase labour assessments in its routine audits to uphold professionalism and protect employees from further exploitation.The investigation also found that the hotels lacked a human resource policy, leaving employees without formal contracts. Additionally, the establishments had unlawfully extended probation periods, failed to follow proper promotion procedures, and ignored legal requirements for appointing a local understudy to replace expatriate managers when necessary.
This crackdown highlights a broader issue within Kenya’s hospitality sector, where cases of employee mistreatment, lack of contracts, and exploitative management practices have been reported in various establishments. The TRA’s intervention sends a strong message to hotel owners and managers that unethical labour practices will not be tolerated.
As Kenya continues to promote itself as a leading tourism destination, ensuring fair treatment of hospitality workers is essential. Protecting employee rights not only improves workplace morale but also enhances the country’s reputation in the global tourism industry. With the TRA committed to enforcing labour laws, the hospitality sector must take necessary steps to comply with regulations and foster a professional and ethical work environment.
