26/11/2025
Last night, CareConnect brought together key voices from the domestic work ecosystem employers, domestic workers, agencies, legal advocates, and SGBV specialists to discuss one question: What does a safe home look like for the people who care for it?
Most conflict in households comes from unclear expectations, lack of communication, silence, and the absence of structure. Employers often feel unheard, domestic workers feel misunderstood, agencies struggle to enforce ethical standards, and yet everyone wants the same thing: a respectful and safe home.
What stood out?
1. Safe homes begin with conversation, not assumptions.
We learned that employers need spaces to speak honestly about their struggles, and domestic workers need safe channels to voice their concerns without fear. When both parties talk, friction reduces, and trust grows.
2. Respect is a two-way standard.
Correcting domestic workers in front of children undermines their dignity and teaches disrespect. Privacy in feedback and clarity in communication build confidence and cooperation. How children see us treat care workers shapes their values.
3. Written contracts protect both workers and employers.
A contract is not a formality it is peace of mind. It defines duties, work hours, minimum wage, termination procedures, and rest days. It prevents “creeping tasks” and provides fair ground in case of disputes.
4. Violence in homes is broader than physical harm.
Low pay, threats, humiliation, denial of rest, unsafe work conditions, and sexual exploitation are forms of abuse. Because domestic work happens behind closed doors, violations often go unreported.
5. Financial security is part of safety.
Stable and lawful employment allows domestic workers to save, borrow, invest, and support their own families. Economic dignity strengthens the entire care economy homes, communities, and businesses.
If care is to thrive in Kenya, it cannot rely on goodwill alone we need to go beyond policy conversations and move toward legal commitment. Ratifying ILO Convention 189 and 190 would anchor the dignity, safety, and economic security of domestic workers in binding law, ensuring fair contracts, protection from violence, and recognition of care work as essential labor.
It also requires employers, workers, agencies, legal bodies, and community organizations to stop talking about each other and start talking to each other.
Because care works Best when we work together.
A big thank you to everyone who contributed their expertise and voice, and to everyone committed to building safe homes and dignified workplaces.
This is not the end of a conversation it is the beginning of a better way forward.
COVAW World University Service of Canada (WUSC-EUMC) The African Early Childhood Network DPAK Sacco Society Ltd-The Domestic Workers Sacco Centre for Domestic Training and Development Domestic Workers Association Zimbabwe Canada’s International Development – Global Affairs Canada
