The death of Ladi Anzaki Olubumni, a TikTok content moderator in Kenya, has led to calls for an investigation into outsourcing labor practices. The Kenya Union of Gig Workers (KUGWO) alleges she was denied leave and faced issues with her work permit. They demand scrutiny of labor practices, including unauthorized wage deductions and mistreatment. This incident highlights ongoing concerns about worker rights in the gig economy.
The tragic death of Ladi Anzaki Olubumni, a Nigerian TikTok content moderator in Kenya, has sparked significant outrage among gig workers regarding outsourcing industry labor practices. Olubumni was discovered deceased in her Nairobi apartment on March 7 after missing work for three days, leading the Kenya Union of Gig Workers (KUGWO) to demand a thorough investigation into her death. The union claims that her requests for leave and a return ticket to Nigeria were denied, raising questions about the firm’s treatment of its workers.
Reports indicate that while the outsourcing company had promised Olubumni an annual return ticket, colleagues suggest she lacked a proper work visa. This posed barriers for her return home, particularly due to fears of extortion or harassment at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA). The firm, however, denies these claims, asserting ongoing communication with Olubumni’s family and local authorities, and refuting allegations of silencing employees. Nonetheless, Larry Madowo of CNN highlights the hesitancy among Olubumni’s colleagues to speak openly.
KUGWO is urging the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to extensively investigate Olubumni’s death and is pressing the Ministry of Labour to examine the company’s labor practices for possible violations, including unauthorized wage deductions and worker mistreatment. The union also insists that the outsourcing firm allow its employees to join trade unions, a right protected under Article 41 of the Kenyan Constitution.
This incident takes place against prior accusations against the same outsourcing firm, as Facebook content moderators in Kenya previously filed lawsuits alleging inadequate working conditions, low remuneration, and a harmful workplace environment. Many moderators reported being misled about the nature of the content and subsequently developed Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Consequently, this tragic event stresses the urgent need for enhanced labor rights and protections for gig workers in the industry.
In summary, the death of Ladi Anzaki Olubumni has highlighted critical issues within the outsourcing sector in Kenya, triggering calls for investigations and labor reforms. The allegations surrounding her treatment raise serious concerns about worker rights, prompting unions to call for scrutiny of labor practices and membership in trade unions. Additionally, this incident sheds light on the ongoing challenges gig workers face concerning their well-being and job security. Overall, it emphasizes the urgent need to address labor rights for gig workers within the industry.
Original Source: www.mwakilishi.com
