Labour and Social Protection Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua has condemned the tragic death of Zeituni Kavayo, a domestic worker in Kilimani, Nairobi.
According to the Ministry, Kavayo’s sudden death reportedly resulted from harassment and abuse by her employer while on duty.
Mutua expressed deep shock over the incident, describing it as a heartbreaking reminder of the discrimination and exploitation faced by low-ranking workers.
He extended condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of the late domestic worker, noting that her death highlights a culture of injustice that deprives workers of dignity and must be brought to an end.
“The Ministry strongly condemns all forms of harassment and violence in workplaces,” Mutua stated.
He affirmed that investigations into the circumstances surrounding Kavayo’s death are ongoing and that those responsible must be brought to justice.
The CS said the Ministry is working with the National Police Service and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations to ensure thorough investigations are conducted without delay.
Mutua assured Kenyans that the safety and rights of domestic workers remain a priority.
He emphasized that, in line with Kenya’s commitment to Decent Work for All, the Ministry will intensify awareness and enforcement of laws protecting domestic workers.
He reminded employers of their legal and moral duty to treat workers with fairness and respect.
“Domestic workers must be afforded the same protections as all other workers, including recourse to justice in cases of abuse,” he said.
The Cabinet Secretary added that the Government is finalizing instruments for the ratification of ILO Conventions No. 189 and 190, which aim to strengthen protections for domestic workers in Kenya.
Mutua called on all stakeholders, including government agencies, employers, workers, and society, to renew their commitment to building workplaces free from harassment, abuse, and violence.
“The tragic loss of Zeituni must not be in vain,” he stressed, urging collective responsibility to ensure similar incidents do not recur.
Zeituni Kavayo, 55, died on September 18, 2025, after allegedly falling from the fifth floor of a house where she had been contracted for laundry work on Mpunga Road in Kilimani.
Police said four Sudanese nationals were arrested in connection with the fatal fall.