Kenya has enacted a 6% minimum wage increase, set to take effect on November 1, 2024, following months of extensive negotiations involving the government, trade unions, and employers. The decision, which was formalized through a gazette notice signed by Labour Cabinet Secretary Dr. Alfred Mutua at State House in Nairobi, is expected to benefit thousands of workers across various sectors, including agriculture and manufacturing.
President William Ruto, who witnessed the signing of the notice, highlighted the government’s commitment to improving the welfare of workers, particularly those earning minimum wage, amid rising living costs. This wage increment is seen as part of the administration’s broader efforts to address the economic challenges faced by vulnerable workers.
The new wage structure is designed to ensure fairness across different employment sectors. For instance, unskilled workers will now earn a minimum of KSh 7,997 per month, or KSh 335 per day. Stockmen and herdsmen, who are vital in the agricultural sector, will see their wages increase to KSh 9,235 per month, or KSh 391 per day.
For skilled and semi-skilled workers, the adjustments are more substantial. House servants or cooks will now receive a minimum of KSh 9,129 per month, while farm foremen and clerks will earn KSh 14,427 per month (KSh 609 per day). Other roles, such as farm artisans and various types of drivers, will see monthly wages set between KSh 9,000 and KSh 11,000.
The wage increase, which extends beyond agriculture into sectors like manufacturing, was the result of a structured approach initiated by the government. Initially, employers called for the establishment of the National Wages Council before any negotiations could commence. Responding to this, Dr. Mutua gazetted the council, as well as several others across different sectors, facilitating a more formalized negotiation process.
During the signing ceremony, key figures such as the Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU) Secretary General Francis Atwoli and Federation of Kenya Employers (FKE) CEO Jacqueline Mugo were present, underscoring the collaborative efforts that led to this agreement.
As the wage hike takes effect in November, it is expected to bring some relief to workers, particularly those in lower-income brackets, amidst the country’s persistent inflation and rising cost of living. The government has positioned this move as part of its broader strategy to enhance the livelihoods of Kenyan workers while maintaining a balance between economic growth and labor welfare.
