Fundi, Groundsman, Mjengo, Nanny—WIBA si ya ‘White Collar’ Pekee: WIBA Ndio Form Kwa Kazi Zote Kenya

Introduction: WIBA Is for Every Worker in Kenya

When people hear about Work Injury Benefits Act (WIBA) insurance, many assume it’s only for office workers or those in corporate jobs. However, work-related injuries can happen anywhere, whether you are a fundi fixing plumbing issues, a groundsman maintaining a lawn, a mjengo worker laying bricks, or a nanny taking care of children. Despite the high-risk nature of these jobs, many informal sector employees in Kenya work without any protection in case of an accident.

Kenya’s workforce extends beyond corporate offices, and millions of workers rely on manual labor to earn a living. Whether it’s in households, construction sites, farms, or roadside garages, workers face daily risks that can lead to serious injuries, disability, or even death. Unfortunately, many employers in the informal sector either don’t know about WIBA insurance or assume it’s unnecessary—until disaster strikes.

This article breaks down the importance of WIBA for informal and manual workers, busts common myths, and explains how employers can get the right coverage. Step By Step Insurance Agency is at the forefront, offering expert guidance and tailor-made WIBA solutions to protect both workers and employers from financial strain due to workplace injuries.

Key Takeaways

✅WIBA insurance covers all employees, including casual and informal sector workers.
✅Employers must provide WIBA coverage to comply with Kenyan labor laws.
✅Informal jobs like domestic work, construction, and landscaping have high risks that require WIBA.
✅Step By Step Insurance Agency offers expert guidance and tailored WIBA solutions.
✅Investing in WIBA protects both workers and employers from financial hardship.

Understanding WIBA Insurance

Work Injury Benefits Act (WIBA) Insurance is a policy designed to compensate employees who suffer injuries or disabilities due to workplace accidents. Under Kenyan law, every employer must provide this coverage for their employees, regardless of the nature of work. It ensures that injured workers receive medical care, lost wages, and disability compensation, reducing financial burdens on both employees and employers.

What WIBA Covers:

Medical expenses for work-related injuries.
Compensation for temporary or permanent disability.
Funeral expenses in case of death.
Compensation for lost wages during recovery.

Despite its importance, many informal employers ignore WIBA, assuming it applies only to big companies or formal workplaces. This misconception leaves thousands of workers unprotected and vulnerable.

Common Myths About WIBA – Why Informal Workers Need It Too

Many informal sector workers in Kenya operate without any form of insurance, mainly due to widespread misconceptions about WIBA. Some employers assume that WIBA is only for corporate employees, while others believe that NHIF and NSSF offer similar protection. These myths leave millions of workers vulnerable to financial ruin in case of workplace injuries. The truth is, WIBA is designed for every employee, regardless of their job type, contract status, or workplace environment. Let’s break down some of the most common misconceptions and why informal workers need WIBA just as much as office employees.

Myth 1: WIBA is Only for Corporate Jobs

Many believe that WIBA is reserved for office employees in companies. In reality, WIBA is for ALL workers, including those in domestic service, construction, and skilled trades like mechanics and electricians.

Myth 2: Casual Workers Don’t Need WIBA

Even if a worker is hired on a temporary basis, they are still at risk of injury. Kenyan labor laws mandate that all employees—casual or permanent—must be covered under WIBA.

Myth 3: NHIF or SHA and NSSF Cover Work Injuries

While NHIF or the current SHA helps with medical expenses, it does not offer compensation for lost wages, disability, or death benefits, which WIBA covers. Likewise, NSSF only provides retirement benefits, not injury compensation.

How WIBA Protects Different Jobs

Workplace risks are not confined to offices—they exist in every sector. Whether working with heavy machinery, handling sharp tools, or performing physically demanding tasks, workers across various industries face daily hazards. WIBA insurance steps in as a safety net, ensuring that in case of an accident, medical expenses and compensation are covered, preventing financial struggles for both the worker and the employer. Below, we explore how WIBA applies to different jobs in Kenya’s informal sector.

Fundis (Artisans and Technicians)

Electricians, plumbers, and mechanics face daily hazards like electric shocks, burns, and injuries from tools or machinery. Without WIBA, a fundi injured on the job may struggle to pay hospital bills or support their family while recovering.

Groundsmen and Gardeners

Landscapers and groundskeepers work with heavy equipment, sharp tools, and chemicals that can cause serious injuries. If a gardener gets injured handling a lawn mower or suffers an allergic reaction to pesticides, WIBA ensures they receive medical care and compensation for lost income.

Mjengo (Construction Workers)

The construction industry is among the riskiest workplaces, with injuries from falling objects, scaffolding collapses, or heavy machinery accidents. WIBA is essential for covering treatment costs and compensation if a worker becomes disabled or unable to work.

Nannies and Domestic Workers

Many underestimate the risks domestic workers face. From slipping on wet floors to burns, cuts, or back injuries from lifting heavy loads, household workers need WIBA protection just as much as corporate employees. Employers must ensure their house helps are covered.

The Role of Step By Step Insurance Agency in WIBA Coverage

Step By Step Insurance Agency specializes in helping employers secure WIBA insurance tailored to their workforce. Whether you run a construction company, a landscaping business, or employ domestic workers, Step By Step provides expert guidance on choosing the right policy to ensure full compliance with the law.

Our services include:

Customized WIBA packages for different job categories
Expert advice on legal requirements and compliance
Quick and hassle-free claims assistance in case of an injury
Affordable premiums suited to businesses of all sizes

Why Employers Must Prioritize WIBA Insurance

The True Cost of Workplace Accidents

Many employers assume that workplace injuries are rare, but the reality is different. An accident can happen at any moment, and if an employer lacks WIBA insurance, they might have to pay medical bills, compensation, and even legal fees out of pocket. This can cripple a small business financially or put a household employer in a difficult situation.

Providing WIBA coverage is not just about legal compliance—it’s about securing the financial future of both the employer and the employee. Whether you employ one domestic worker or run a team of construction workers, investing in WIBA is a proactive step that shields you from unexpected financial burdens.

By prioritizing WIBA, employers foster a safer work environment, boost employee morale, and protect themselves from legal risks. A covered worker is a motivated worker, and a responsible employer is a protected one.

Legal Compliance:

Avoid legal trouble by ensuring all workers are covered.

Financial Protection:

Employers don’t have to pay out of pocket for medical expenses or lost wages.

Employee Welfare:

A covered employee is a motivated and secure employee.

Business Continuity:

Reduces financial risks associated with workplace accidents.

Peace of Mind:

Employers can focus on productivity, knowing their workers are protected.

Conclusion: WIBA is a Necessity, Not a Luxury

Whether you employ a fundi, a groundsman, a mjengo worker, or a nanny, WIBA is a legal and ethical responsibility. Protecting workers ensures their well-being, reduces financial risks for employers, and fosters a safer working environment for everyone.

Step By Step Insurance Agency is committed to making WIBA insurance accessible and affordable for all employers in Kenya. Don’t wait until an accident happens—secure WIBA today!

Need WIBA Insurance? Contact Step By Step Insurance Agency today!

Call: 0729712200 / 0716534192

WhatsApp: 0722888350

Email: info@stepbystepinsurance.co.ke

Website: stepbystepinsurance.co.ke/

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Fundi, Groundsman, Mjengo, Nanny—WIBA si ya ‘White Collar’ Pekee: WIBA Ndio Form Kwa Kazi Zote Kenya