Workers rights to join an association and to bargain: Karen Blixen Camp respects workers’ rights to join a union. 5 staff members have been democratically elected to speak on behalf of the staff. At least once a month, a meeting between the management and the staff is held whereby staff is able to raise questions or concerns.

Staff is also encouraged to formally negotiate salary and terms of employment at least once a year. In case of any misinterpretation between the individual staff member and the management, the company responds to the chosen labor union with attention to resolve the matter.

All staff members sign a medical insurance policy with the National Health Insurance Fund. NHIF covers the staff member and close family in case of in-patient medical help (hospitalization) but not in case of out-patient medical help.

When needed, staff is able to seek medical help at the local health clinic. These out-patient activities (consultation fee, test and medication) are paid by the company. In case of extended medical treatment, staff can be referred to private or national hospitals in Nairobi. Two doctors at Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi assists us with medical advices for staff.

Social security

All staff members are covered through the National Social Security Fund. NSSF reimburses social benefits when the member retires from a regularly paid employment or to the dependants of a deceased member. NSSF also offers funeral grants.

Gender equality and equity

Karen Blixen Camp is committed to promote gender equality and equity. Women and men are given the same employment conditions and salary is paid in accordance to qualifications. However, women are given 3 month of maternity leave, whilst men have 14 days paternity leave.

Affordable loans

Many of our staff has registered for Kentours Sacco, a cooperative that provides loans on an employee membership base. Every month we reduce a fixed amount from the individual’s salary, which is paid into the joint fund. Whenever needed staff can apply for a loan with an interest rate of 9% for payment of school fees, hospital bill or even building a house. If our staff had to obtain a loan through a bank the interest rate would easily be 15-25%.

Housing and relaxation when not working

The staff accommodation comprises two stone houses; canteen, flush toilets and hot and cold water showers. All staff rooms have a bed, beddings, linen, a mosquito net and a lockable cupboard for private belongings.

The canteen serves breakfasts, lunches and dinners. TV with DSTV provides news from the outside world and a DVD shows movies. Twice a year, a football tournament between the camps of the area is arranged. The Karen Blixen Camp Team finished 2nd in the last tournament.