AEA CBA NEGOTIATIONS AND PROGRESS UPDATE – 2025

This year, the Association has successfully engaged in several Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) negotiations with three unions; KPAWU, KUPRIPUPA and KGHSWU covering a total of seven CBAs across different sectors. Below is a summary of the progress made under each negotiation:

1. HFB CBA
   The HFB CBA was successfully registered on 4^th November 2025 after its completion and implementation with September payroll. Members and the union had already agreed to implement the negotiated terms while awaiting registration, demonstrating goodwill and a shared commitment to fair labour practices. The agreement reflected a balanced approach between business sustainability and employee welfare, with implementation taking effect from the September payroll.
2. RANCHERS AND CONSERVANCIES CBA
   The Ranchers and Conservancies CBA remains under discussion, with the final negotiation session scheduled for 25th November 2025. Both parties have made significant progress on key items, and it is anticipated that the CBA will be concluded during the upcoming meeting.
3. BORANA, LEWA AND OL PEJETA CBA
   Negotiations for the Borana, Lewa and Ol Pejeta CBA commenced on 30th October 2025 in Nanyuki. The initial meeting provided a constructive foundation for dialogue, and a second session has been scheduled for 25th November 2025 to continue discussions and refine outstanding items.
4. MAU TEA CBA
   The Mau Tea CBA was finalized and is currently in the process of registration. The agreement underscores both parties’ commitment to maintaining harmonious industrial relations while ensuring fair and competitive employment terms within the tea sector.
5. EAST AFRICAN GROWERS FRESH PRODUCE LTD CBA
   Negotiations for the East African Growers Fresh Produce Ltd CBA were finalized on all clauses except the wages clause. The parties agreed to escalate the matter to the principals for finalization, after which a meeting is being scheduled to conclude and sign off the agreement. The process has been collaborative, with both sides demonstrating flexibility and a commitment to timely closure.
6. ADVANCE PACKAGING MANUFACTURERS LTD CBA
   Negotiations for the Advance Packaging Manufacturers Ltd CBA have officially commenced today in Nairobi at the company premises. Both the Association and the union have expressed optimism that the process will yield a mutually beneficial agreement reflective of the current economic and operational realities.
7. FARMERS CHOICE LTD CBA
   The current Farmers Choice Ltd CBA is set to expire in two months. To ensure continuity and avoid accumulation of arrears, the Association has formally requested the union to submit its proposals early to allow for timely commencement of negotiations. The Association is awaiting the union’s proposals to begin the process.

The year 2025 has been a dynamic period for the Association’s labour relations agenda, marked by constructive engagement, collaboration and steady progress across multiple CBAs. The Association remains committed to fostering fair, sustainable and mutually beneficial agreements that strengthen employer–employee relations while supporting productivity and competitiveness across the agricultural sector.