A large pineapple plantation owned by Del Monte in Kenya, which provides produce to major British retailers, is seeking a human rights manager to handle concerns about the mistreatment of individuals following accusations of harm and aggression towards the plantation’s security personnel.
The job posting states that the applicant will be required to create a comprehensive plan of action to confront issues regarding human rights within the workplace and the neighboring communities.
The Guardian and the Bureau of Investigative Journalism’s inquiries have revealed accusations of numerous fatalities and aggression associated with Del Monte’s security personnel.
After facing pressure from supermarkets following the release of last year’s articles, the company hired a confidential team to conduct a human rights impact assessment (HRIA). The Guardian obtained the results of this assessment, which were extremely critical. The assessment concluded that the farm had a significant negative impact on the human rights of both employees and residents in nearby communities.
The organization responsible for authoring the report, Partner Africa, has suggested various changes, including the addition of a new role.
Earlier this month, Del Monte revealed its decision to hire G4S for its farm’s security needs, resulting in the termination of employment for 214 guards who were previously on the company’s payroll. In addition, Del Monte is currently seeking a welfare and diversity manager to establish a department focused on workers’ well-being.
The new position, as stated by Peter McAllister, the head of the Ethical Trading Initiative, is a product of efforts from the HRIA in collaboration with shops, charities, and unions to enhance human rights in supply chains. This development is viewed as a favorable move.
“It is our belief that any corporation, particularly one of the magnitude and reach of Del Monte, should possess a team with proficiency in human rights to provide guidance to management, remain up-to-date on top principles, collaborate with various stakeholders, and fulfill the company’s obligations to its customers.”
The report stated that Del Monte’s staff were collaborating with a group of criminals and sharing confidential information. It urged Del Monte to take immediate steps to compensate those whose rights were infringed and suggested creating a plan to promote human rights.
The company is currently being sued for accusations of murder, sexual assault, and physical abuse carried out by its security guards. A representative from Del Monte Kenya stated that the lawsuit, which was brought to the Kenyan high court, will offer a chance for all involved parties to provide evidence and disprove unfounded claims in a public setting. They are confident that the court proceedings will reveal the truth and clear their reputation.
Five of its former guards alleged in interviews with the Guardian that a lack of training and Del Monte’s poor relationship with local people had fuelled violent clashes with trespassers on the farm. Since the Guardian and TBIJ’s initial investigation was published in June, there have been another five deaths allegedly linked to guards at the farm.
Four individuals, identified as men, trespassed on a plantation near Thika with the intention to steal pineapples. Their bodies were discovered in a river on both Christmas Eve and Day of last year, allegedly after being pursued by guards. It was claimed that representatives from the company attempted to conceal the truth of their deaths by offering bribes. In response, Del Monte Kenya stated that the men had voluntary entered the river and denied any wrongdoing.
Del Monte was asked for a statement regarding the new position. They have stated before that they are dedicated to consistently improving their operations to comply with the highest standards of human rights on a global scale in all aspects of their business.
Source: theguardian.com
