Kenyan Minimum Wage Set for Increase

President William Ruto has announced plans to raise Kenya's minimum wage, marking the first increase since his predecessor implemented a raise in 2022.

During a Labour Day speech, President Ruto directed the Labour Cabinet Secretary to convene a committee to review the minimum wage and recommend an increase of at least 6%. This committee will comprise representatives from various stakeholder groups, including worker unions, employer organizations, and government officials. The committee's deliberations will determine the final increase, with the expectation that the minimum wage will reach approximately Ksh 16,027 per month.

President Ruto touts the initiative and highlights its role in ensuring a decent standard of living for Kenya's lowest-paid workers. He has directed the Ministry of Labour to collaborate with the committee to ensure a minimum increase of 6%. The minimum wage is a critical legal safeguard, guaranteeing that employees receive a baseline level of compensation that individual contracts or collective bargaining agreements cannot undercut.

In a broader effort to promote industrial harmony and manage labour disputes, President Ruto also calls for the activation of multiple wage councils established under the 2007 Labour Relations Act. These sector-specific councils, covering areas like maritime, security, general labour, and agriculture, will have the authority to negotiate minimum wages within their respective industries. The government's goal in activating these councils is to enhance conciliation, mediation, and overall industrial peace.

President Ruto acknowledges the importance of upholding court orders while respecting the constitutional right to strike. He urges all parties involved in labour disputes to act in good faith and prioritize the well-being of Kenyan citizens. He emphasizes the importance of adhering to established legal procedures for resolving labour disputes.