Workers at EPZ company resume duties following brief cessation

The striking workers at Top New Knitwear Manufacturing Company, based at the Athi River Export Processing Zone (EPZ), have resumed work after a two-week strike. The industrial action was initiated due to the company changing its ownership without settling the workers' dues.

Originally owned by Madam Candy Ma, the company has recently undergone a change of hands, with the new majority shareholder being Baani Group. The new Chinese General Manager, Mr Ye Shuman, now leads the company.

The dispute revolved around the workers' dues and the ownership change of the company. Last week, union officers led by Secretary General, Rev Joel Chebii, stormed the factory demanding to know when the workers would be paid their dues. A commotion occurred between the union officers and the Chinese company management after Chebii forcibly entered their office.

However, a meeting between the EPZA CEO, the new company management, and the union officials took place on Thursday. As a result of the meeting, both parties have agreed to adhere to laid down labor laws, and the company has agreed in writing to continue employing all current workers. The benefits of the workers will not be lost, according to the agreement, and there will be no victimization of workers from either side.

The company will also have to provide the EPZ Authority with change in ownership documents and projected performance documents for review. The manufacturing company will continue to abide by the CBA agreement dated 19th September 2024.

In a letter dated 6th August 2025, the company informed the EPZA about the ownership change but failed to notify the union and the workers. The Secretary General addressed the workers, asking them to remain calm and assuring them that their benefits will be paid soon.

When workers demanded to know the truth about Madam Candy Ma's departure, they were allegedly told that she had only gone for a two-month leave, although she had already left the company. Despite the confusion, the striking workers have decided to return to work, hoping for a resolution to their outstanding issues.