In the lakeside town of Naivasha, Kenya, many workers, predominantly women, contribute to the country’s flourishing flower industry. One such worker, Anne (not her real name), spends her days picking and sorting roses in temperature-controlled greenhouses near Lake Naivasha. The flower industry in Kenya is a significant employer, providing jobs to over 150,000 individuals and generating approximately $1 billion annually in foreign exchange. Despite her dedication of over 15 years to the industry, Anne’s monthly wage of just over $100 has not changed significantly in years, making it challenging to cope with the rising cost of living. Many workers face financial difficulties, often resulting in the need to take out loans to cover essential expenses. Anne describes how her monthly income is often insufficient for her family’s needs.
Workers begin their day early, with Anne commuting to the farms each morning. Although the standard workday is eight hours, many employees feel pressured to work additional hours without overtime pay. The working conditions in the pack houses, where flowers are cleaned and sorted, are reported to be demanding, with stringent daily targets set by management. Anne faced a health scare earlier this year when she fell ill with a blood condition. Although she sought medical attention, she was permitted only one day off before returning to work, despite still feeling unwell. Health concerns extend beyond illness, as many workers, including Margaret (another pseudonym), express worries about the chemicals used in flower production, which are applied without proper protective gear.
Reports from organizations, such as the Route To Food Initiative, highlight the use of hazardous pesticides in the industry, raising health and safety concerns among workers. Allegations of sexual harassment within the industry have also emerged, though attempts to gather responses from relevant authorities have gone unanswered. While the Kenyan flower industry significantly contributes to the economy, it also poses environmental challenges. The production process demands substantial water resources, and flowers are transported long distances to meet European demand, often wrapped in single-use plastics.
Kenya supplies over 40% of the European flower market, with the majority of blooms sent to the Netherlands. This bustling market plays a crucial role in distributing flowers to suppliers across Europe, but consumers often lack insight into the labor conditions faced by workers like Anne and Margaret. Despite the challenges, Anne continues to work in the flower industry, driven by the need to support her family. The lack of alternative employment opportunities in Naivasha leaves her with few options. As she navigates her circumstances, Anne remains hopeful for a better future.
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