Since the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic, many Kenyans have been negatively affected, with many losing their source of income.
This follows the massive job lay offs that have been witnessed, and continue being witnessed in many companies, due to the economic effects of the pandemic.
However, Kenyans may continue losing their jobs even after the end of the pandemic.
Machakos County governor Dr Alfred Mutua says that the massive lay offs may not cease when the Covid-19 is finally contained.
Dr Mutua on Sunday July 5, 2020 listed various reasons as to why Kenyans will continue losing jobs.
1.Inability of Kenyan Economy to Cushion its Citizens
Governor Mutua says that it is quite concerning when we hear of mass sackings of employees from Covid-19 economic hardships. However, he notes that the main problem is not Covid-19, but the inability of Kenyan economy to cushion its citizens during times such crisis.
2. Lack of Economic Freedom and Expansion
According to Governor Mutua, we have, as a society, been primed to place more emphasis on politics and tribal blocs rather than economic freedom and expansion.
He notes that this is the reason families are hurting and Kenyans are suffering due to lack of money and general hardships in life.
3. Lack of Innovation
Governor Mutua notes that in Kenya, voices on need for innovation, economic growth and development are relegated to the back.
He notes that Kenyan politics is not about policy but about formations and who is who. As a result, Governor Mutua notes, while other nations are providing unemployment benefits, money to industries, our people are being fired.
4. Poverty and loss of dignity
According to Governor Mutua, the political class is comfortable while wananchi are living on less than ksh100 a day.
“I see poverty and loss of dignity every day in a country with so much to offer. I play my part in rolling back poverty but clearly development is never viewed as a priority.
“For those who have slept hungry, like I have, living in a Nairobi slum, you know the pains of being poor. Therefore we must ensure that we have a vision of how to transform this country, ‘ he said.
5. Journalists not playing their role right
Governor Mutua has accused journalists and editors of not playing their roles right. He says that it is laughable and ironic that journalists and editors who should be focusing on economic issues, instead give front pages to political games and politicians who have nothing to offer.
“As a journalist, I can say this. It is laughable and ironic that journalists and editors who should be focusing on economic issues, instead give front pages to political games and politicians who have nothing to offer.
“Now, most of these journalists have been fired. The political class that they gave headlines and front pages to are Ok. The journalists’ families will soon be hungry,” he said.
