Gov’t Launches Probe into Claims of Racism, Discrimination of Kenyan SGR Workers by Chinese ‘Masters’

The government has commenced probe into allegations of racism and mistreatment of Kenyan employees working at the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) by Chinese ‘masters’.

Kenya Railways said China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC), the Chinese firm that runs the passenger train, Madaraka Express will be investigated over the claims exposed by local media and that left Kenyans outraged.

Kenya Railways boss Atanas Maina said tough action will be taken against the firm if found culpable of the allegations.

“We have launched investigations into alleged incidents of mistreatment of local staff employed to facilitate operations at the standard gauge railway.”

“This is unethical conduct, if found to be authentic action will be taken in accordance with the contract between us and the operator and in accordance with the laws of Kenya,” said Mr Maina.

CRBC signed a five-year operations, maintenance and service deal with Kenya Railways for the Mombasa-Nairobi segment of the SGR line.

Investigations by The Standard exposed harsh working conditions for Kenyans working at the SGR, including discrimination, racism, and harassment by the Chinese staff.

For example, Kenyan employees are reportedly not allowed to share dining tables with the Chinese staff in the rail’s cafeteria.

“Racism is so real here. There is an unwritten rule of where you need to sit. You cannot just join the Chinese table,” an assistant locomotive driver is quoted as saying.

Kenyans who were hired with a minimum of diploma to be trained as professional locomotive drivers were allegedly assigned menial jobs.

“We just sit at the back and watch. There is no actual transfer of skills that is happening here,” an assistant locomotive driver who has been with the SGR for over a year now told Sunday Standard.

Electronic equipment at the train are also programmed in Chinese, making it impossible for locals to progress beyond menial jobs, despite being hired as technicians, engineers, and drivers to take over the operation of the line.