More Than 8,000 EPK Workers to Enjoy 14% Pay Rise After New CBA Deal

More than 8,000 workers at Eastern Produce Kenya (EPK) are set to receive a 14 per cent wage increase after the company signed a new Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) with the Kenya Plantation and Agricultural Workers Union (KPAWU).

The agreement will see employees receive a 7 per cent general wage increase this year, backdated to January 2026, followed by another 7 per cent increase next year.

The deal was signed on Friday, August 28, with both EPK and KPAWU describing it as a step towards improving workers’ welfare while supporting the sustainability of the tea-growing business.

EPK workers to receive two wage increases

Under the revised agreement, the first 7 per cent increase will apply from January 2026, meaning eligible workers will benefit from the adjustment for the months that have already passed.

A further 7 per cent increase will take effect next year, bringing the agreed wage adjustment to 14 per cent over the two-year period.

Speaking during the signing ceremony, EPK Company Director Leah Kibii Chirchir said employee welfare remained an important part of the company’s strategy.

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She said workers play a central role in maintaining EPK’s operations and ensuring the company continues to produce tea for both local and international markets.

“Our employees are at the heart of our business,” Chirchir said, noting that their daily work contributes to the company’s performance and the quality of its tea.

She added that the latest review would help support the livelihoods of workers in the agricultural sector.

Atwoli hails EPK over labour relations

KPAWU Secretary General Francis Atwoli welcomed the agreement, pointing to the difficult conditions facing tea growers and other agricultural businesses.

Despite the challenges affecting the sector, Atwoli singled out EPK as one of the companies that has maintained good relations with its workers.

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He said large tea producers such as EPK continue to play an important role in Kenya’s economy through employment and other contributions to national development.

“At KPAWU, we recognise the role large tea growers such as EPK are playing in national development, especially in the employment sector,” Atwoli said.

Atwoli assured the company of the union’s continued support as an industrial relations partner.

Chirchir said EPK would continue engaging workers and other stakeholders as it implements the revised wage terms, while maintaining its focus on sustainable operations, quality tea production and employee wellbeing.

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EPK Company Director Leah Kibii Chirchir alongside veteran trade unionist and KPAWU Secretary General Francis Atwoli during the signing of an updated Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). PHOTO/ FILE.