Taita Taveta, Kenya – The Kenya Tourism Regulatory Authority (TRA) has launched an investigation into allegations of workplace abuse, discrimination, and mistreatment at Taita Hills Resort and Spa in Taita Taveta County.
The inquiry follows multiple complaints from current and former employees, who accuse the resort’s General Manager, Sanjeev Kumar, of fostering a toxic work environment characterized by verbal abuse, racial discrimination, and intimidation.
Allegations of Staff Mistreatment and Abuse
Several employees have come forward with testimonies detailing incidents of humiliation, threats, and unfair treatment within the workplace.
Intern Speaks Out Against Body Shaming
Among the disturbing accusations is a complaint from an intern, who claims she was verbally abused over her body size by Kumar, who allegedly made demeaning remarks and even attempted to terminate her internship on that basis.
The Human Resource Manager reportedly refused to comply, after which the intern was transferred to the front desk, where she continued to experience body shaming before ultimately being dismissed prematurely.
“On numerous occasions, he made demeaning comments about my body, particularly referencing my large breasts and stating that they had ‘no place in the hospitality industry.’ These comments not only humiliated me but also created a hostile and discouraging work environment,” reads the intern’s complaint to the Tourism Regulatory Authority (TRA).
She further alleged that other employees have suffered similar treatment, with some cases being even more distressing.
Claims of Verbal Abuse and Retaliation
Another former employee accused Kumar of public humiliation, claiming that he yelled at staff in front of guests and nearly threw a notebook at them.
Other reports state that:
- Off days, maternity leave, and paternity leave requests were ignored.
- Employees faced retaliation when they raised concerns.
- Staff were coached on what to say during board visits and threatened if they deviated from the prepared statements.
Allegations of Racism and Discrimination
The Taita Hills Resort management also faces serious accusations of racial bias in hiring and treatment of employees.
According to one former employee, Kumar allegedly expressed his dislike for Black employees and preferred hiring lighter-skinned individuals for front office positions.
The TRA’s report notes:
“One former worker claims Kumar openly stated that he does not want to work with Black employees and has replaced front office staff with lighter-skinned individuals.”
The authority is also reviewing reports that Kumar intimidated a former employee into quitting a new job at a neighboring lodge, forcing them to return to Taita Hills Resort after allegedly issuing threats.
Destruction of Property and CCTV Cover-up
Another incident under investigation involves a violent outburst by Kumar in which he allegedly smashed a fruit bowl in anger and berated a pastry chef.
In an apparent cover-up attempt, he is said to have pressured the resort’s CCTV controller to delete the footage before later orchestrating their dismissal.
A video obtained by Citizen Digital reportedly shows a man of Indian descent angrily confronting an African staff member in the resort’s kitchen, where he is seen knocking utensils and food onto the floor.
Tourism Authority Demands Answers
Following these serious allegations, the Kenya Tourism Regulatory Authority (TRA) has:
✅ Formally raised concerns with the resort’s management
✅ Issued a five-day deadline for a response
✅ Threatened to suspend the resort’s tourism license if the issues are not addressed
So far, Taita Hills Resort has not responded to the allegations, and attempts to reach them for comment have been unsuccessful.
Next Steps and Potential Legal Actions
With multiple complaints surfacing, the TRA could take decisive action, including:
- Revoking or suspending Taita Hills Resort’s operating license
- Recommending legal action if violations of labor laws and anti-discrimination policies are confirmed
- Holding the management accountable for any violations uncovered
The case has sparked national debate, with Kenyans demanding justice for affected employees and calling for stricter oversight in the hospitality industry.
Conclusion
The allegations at Taita Hills Resort and Spa paint a disturbing picture of workplace abuse, racism, and intimidation within the hospitality industry.
The TRA’s intervention is expected to bring justice to the affected workers and ensure ethical labor practices are upheld in Kenya’s tourism sector.
The hospitality industry remains under scrutiny, with stakeholders urging the government to take firm action against discrimination and worker mistreatment.
🚨 More updates to follow as investigations continue. 🚨
