Kakuzi wins top honor in Occupational Safety and Health Practice

KENYA – Listed agri-business firm, Kakuzi PLC, was named the overall winner in Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Practice in the Agricultural Sector during the National Annual Occupational Safety and Health Awards 2024.

The event took place on the World Day for Safety and Health at Work at Nyayo Gardens in Nakuru County.

The awards, organized by the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection, honored companies excelling in occupational health and safety in the workplace.

Kakuzi earned the accolade after a comprehensive assessment by the Directorate of Occupational Safety and Health Services. The evaluation covered various aspects, including workplace risk assessments, hazard identification and control, accident prevention and reporting, and a robust safety culture.

Kakuzi’s success is credited to its employees’ commitment to safety, collaborative workplace inspections, and active safety and health committees.

Managing Director Chris Flowers expressed his pride in the achievement, saying, “With over 3,500 employees, our commitment to employee safety remains unwavering. This award reaffirms our dedication to prioritizing safety. As we navigate the risks of extreme weather conditions, especially in Kenya, we urge everyone to stay vigilant and safe. We aim to continually improve working practices that protect ourselves and others while fostering productivity and technology.”

The theme of this year’s World Day for Safety and Health at Work, “Impacts of Climate Change in Occupational Safety and Health,” emphasizes the importance of addressing emerging challenges in workplace safety amid changing environmental conditions.

Dr. William Kiprono, Secretary of Administration at the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection, highlighted the significance of prioritizing safety, stating, “We must focus on building a climate-resilient workforce and promoting a sustainable workplace.”

To achieve its 2024 OSH goals, Kakuzi has taken specific steps such as revitalizing its Safety and Health Policy, conducting training and capacity building, recognizing safety champions, and launching an OSH Week campaign.

Further solidifying its commitment to occupational safety and health, Kakuzi recently strengthened its ESG commitment with a KES 250 million (USD 1.63 million) investment.

This investment aims to bolster the company’s alignment with global client expectations, support local communities, and address stakeholder concerns.

Managing Director Chris Flowers stressed the significance of incorporating ESG practices, particularly given their increasing importance to international fresh produce buyers. Kakuzi’s investment seeks to improve ESG and sustainability practices across its supply chain.

Flowers noted, “Failing to adhere to ESG standards could negatively impact Kenya’s agricultural exports, which are striving to enhance their value on the global stage.”

Kakuzi’s substantial investment demonstrates its dedication to upholding high ESG standards and contributing to the overall advancement of Kenya’s agricultural sector.

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