The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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Homeways Supermarket in Witeithie, Thika, has come under scrutiny after an anonymous employee alleged that staff are being subjected to harsh and exploitative working conditions.
The complaint, shared with blogger Cyprian Nyakundi, paints a grim picture of what workers claim is “modern-day slavery.” The whistleblower requested anonymity, citing fear of victimization.
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According to the account, employees reportedly work 13-hour shifts, from 6:50 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., earning a salary of KSh10,000 per month without overtime compensation. The message further alleges that staff are banned from using their phones during working hours and face fines if they fail to submit their devices to management.
The whistleblower also claimed that workers are penalized for expired or damaged goods, even when accidents occur in the line of duty. In one incident, a staff member reportedly tripped while carrying two bales of unga, damaging four packets, and was allegedly forced to pay for them.
Other claims include delayed lunch breaks, strict monitoring of restroom visits, and instances where female employees are allegedly pressured to lift heavy loads meant for male staff.
“We feel exploited… This is modern-day slavery,” the message read.
Supermarket Responds
Following the viral claims, Homeways Supermarket issued a statement on social media dismissing the allegations as “false and misleading.”
“We value our staff and ensure a safe, fair, and supportive workplace where all employees work within regulated hours and receive their entitled breaks,” the statement read.
The management added that they are nonetheless reviewing all feedback to ensure staff welfare, and apologized if any of the concerns raised had merit.
Growing Concern Over Worker Welfare
The allegations have sparked widespread discussion online, with social media users calling for investigations into working conditions in local retail chains. Some commenters urged the Ministry of Labour and relevant authorities to look into the matter.
