Rivatex East Africa SEZ Limited has announced sweeping layoffs as part of an ongoing restructuring programme, dealing a heavy blow to workers in the textile industry.
In an internal memo dated September 3, 2025, Acting Managing Director CPA Stanley Bett confirmed that both permanent and fixed-term employees would be affected. The move, he said, was in line with Section 40 of the Employment Act, 2007, which allows for termination on grounds of redundancy.
According to the notice, employees on fixed-term contracts that expired on August 30, 2025, will not have their contracts renewed. Those on permanent and pensionable terms will face termination effective September 3, with a three-month notice period. Their final working day will be November 30, 2025.
Bett assured staff that the company would strictly follow applicable labour laws and guidelines from the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry. Employees have also been promised payment of all pending dues. Fixed-term staff will receive salaries up to August 31, while permanent employees will be paid through November 30.
The management further directed staff to clear with the Human Resource Division to facilitate the release of dues and issuance of certificates of service.
The announcement has sparked anxiety and shock among employees, many of whom have served the company for over a decade. “We did not expect this scale of layoffs. It is painful to be sent home just like that,” said one worker, who requested anonymity.
Labour unions are expected to weigh in soon, as mass redundancies in Kenya’s manufacturing sector often draw scrutiny over compliance with fair labour practices.
Despite the harsh news, Bett extended appreciation on behalf of the board, thanking staff for their dedicated service and wishing them success in their future endeavors.
The restructuring comes at a time when Kenya’s textile industry faces mounting challenges, including rising operational costs, stiff competition, and pressure to align with global value chains.
