In January 2015 Kenya accepted recommendations to develop a National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights while undergoing her 2nd cycle review under the universal periodic review process. The Government of Kenya through the Office of the attorney General and Department of justice has since developed a National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights, a comprehensive strategy for protecting against human rights abuses by businesses, whether private of government-owned.

The Kenya National Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KNCCI) has this morning signed an agreement with the Danish Institute for Human Rights (DIHR) to build the capacity of KNCCI’s members and the business community in Kenya for them to be able to understand and implement the UN guiding Principles on Business Human Rights.

Human rights are universal and every person around the world deserves to be treated with dignity and equality. While governments have to protect individuals against human rights abuses by third parties, businesses are recognizing their legal, moral, and commercial need to get involved more especially as the cornerstone of the economy.

The attention of customers, business partners, employees, civil society, and investors is increasingly being drawn to sustainability. There is closer scrutiny of corporate impact on people and communities, so is the interest in human rights protection. Companies that focus on protecting human rights and cultivating positive relationships with their stakeholders ensure their business’ continued growth and social license to operate.

KNCCI aims to support 400 businesses in Kenya drawn from its 4 regions across the 47 counties. The Project will be executed at the county level in Kenya’s four regions with 8 training sessions each carrying 50 business persons. The training sessions will be held in the following counties; Kisumu, Mombasa, Kilifi ,Uasin Gishu, Nakuru ,Busia  ,Nyeri  and Machakos.

The agreement was signed by the Chamber President Mr. Richard Ngatia representing the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce & Industry ( KNCCI) and Department Director Business and Human Rights Mr. Elin Wrzoncki representing The Danish Institute for Human Rights (DIHR)

The two organizations urge the business community and the government to act with due diligence to avoid infringing on others’ rights. They must address any negative human rights impacts related to their business and must also abide by the international `standards.