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President William Ruto has announced a salary increase for Kenyan workers, raising minimum wages by 12% for general employees and 15% for agricultural workers.
He made the declaration during Labour Day celebrations held in Vihiga County, noting that the adjustment was made in response to proposals presented by workers through the Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU).
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Ruto said the wage review recognises the contribution, resilience, and sacrifices of workers in driving the country’s economic growth and stability.
He added that the government remains committed to improving livelihoods and building a stronger economy in partnership with workers across all sectors.
The Labour Day event, which attracted thousands of participants from different parts of the country, was held in Vihiga for the first time since independence.
Labour Day is observed annually to honour workers and recognise their role in national development, while also highlighting ongoing efforts to improve wages, working conditions, and labour rights.
This year’s celebrations were held under the theme focusing on accelerating trade through infrastructure development, particularly the transformation of the Rironi–Malaba highway corridor.
The President said the theme aligns with the government’s broader agenda of using infrastructure development to drive economic growth, regional integration, and job creation.
He also noted that Labour Day remains an important global observance linked to the historical labour movement advocating for fair working hours and improved working conditions.
In Kenya, the 2026 Labour Day was marked as a public holiday on May 1, with workers from both public and private sectors participating in the national event.
The relocation of the celebrations to Vihiga saw strong turnout, with workers arriving in groups, many wearing uniforms representing their organisations and carrying messages highlighting workplace concerns and achievements.
