Investigating gender-based violence and harassment at James Finlays Kenya

  • ETI
Tea estate in Kenya. Photo credit: Shutterstock.

Over the past year ETI has been chairing a Steering Group (SG) tasked with overseeing an investigation into endemic risks of gender-based violence and harassment (GBVH) at James Finlays Kenya (JFK). This investigation was triggered in response to BBC Panorama’s ‘Sex for Work: The True Cost of Our Tea’.

The SG is made up of two NGOs and several buyers of JFK. Together, they have supported a robust process aligned with the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights which has enabled a thorough investigation, working with relevant experts, engaging with a wide range of stakeholders. This process has heard the experiences and perspectives of workers at different levels and the local community, and validated information gathered. The context, findings, root causes, and recommendations have provided a solid understanding and foundation for action and positive change. It is now incumbent on Finlays, and Browns as the new owners of JKF, to guarantee the implementation of a credible, meaningful, and well-resourced action plan; and on their customers to ensure their commitment to supporting its delivery. 

“This work should be done through genuine and ongoing consultation with survivors, workers and their representatives, the local community, and local civil society organisations. For change to be meaningful and sustainable it is critical that a thoughtful process of stakeholder engagement is undertaken, strengthening these relationships, and building trust. This starts with the acknowledgement of responsibility and a clear communication of the findings, recommendations and intended actions, the latter with an opening for dialogue in design and implementation.” 
Peter McAllister, Executive Director, ETI

The SG has published an overview of this process and now await the publication of an executive summary of this investigation. They will also ensure that lessons, related to the process and findings of the investigation are shared with relevant stakeholders to inform understanding and action across the sector. 

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