Workers at the Bomas International Convention Complex (BICC) construction site near Lang’ata Road have protested, citing the deaths of several colleagues. Workers at the BICC stage protest over increasing deaths. Photo: Dennis the National. Source: Facebook The workers staged the demonstrations on Monday, March 16, after another colleague died, bringing the death toll to over seven. Why did BICC workers protest? According to them, the authorities have ignored their safety concerns and failed to listen to their daily grievances. “One of us died today, and he is not the first. We have lost more than seven people here. Since this site was opened, people have sustained injuries, and others have ended up dying. Others also collapse. We witness these challenges every day, but we do not know who will respond to our concerns.
Nobody has ever taken responsibility to address our challenges. We do not even know the fate of our colleagues who have died at this site,” said a worker, adding that they are usually not even given time to mourn their colleagues. “Someone dies in the morning, and after an hour, work resumes as if nothing has happened. Our question is, who is the voice of the voiceless? We are the vulnerable and the voiceless. Who speaks for us?” he posed. Workers claimed that authorities threaten dismissal and immediate replacement when they inquire about safety and payment issues. They demanded explanations and justice for those killed or injured at the site. “We want the Chinese leader to guarantee our safety today. This death must be the last,” the workers stated.
How will BICC benefit Kenya? Meanwhile, the Cabinet approved the constructio of the centre to modernise Bomas and establish it as a leading destination for global events. Speaking during the Jamhuri Day celebrations, President William Ruto stated that the site is operational for 24 hours because of the timeline set for its completion. “It is being constructed 24 hours a day because I have set a timeline for it to begin generating revenue for the country. I am confident that with the infrastructure we are putting in place and the creativity around our tourism products, we can reposition Kenya as a holistic business-tourism destination,” he said. The head of state added that the project will not only be recognised globally but also create jobs and ensure the country grows economically. The modern facility will be equipped with cutting-edge technology, capable of hosting 11,000 people.
