President Ruto Calls for Minimum Wage Increase in Labour Day Address

During the 59th International Labour Day celebrations at Uhuru Gardens in Nairobi, President William Ruto advocated for an increase in the minimum wage to ensure equitable compensation for workers' contributions to the economy.

President Ruto instructed Labour Cabinet Secretary Florence Bore to lead the initiative to raise the minimum wage by at least six percent. He emphasized the importance of consulting with relevant stakeholders to determine the methodology for calculating the increase and its implementation.

The process of determining the minimum wage increase involves considerations such as inflation rates, cost of living adjustments, and economic growth indicators. Governments typically engage with labor unions, employers' associations, and economic experts to establish a fair and sustainable minimum wage.

President Ruto also directed the Ministry of Labour to activate multiple wage councils outlined in the 2007 Labor Relations Act. These councils, covering sectors like seafarers, protective, general, and agricultural wages, will negotiate minimum wages to promote industrial peace and effectively manage disputes.

Highlighting the government's commitment to upholding labor laws, President Ruto stressed that every Kenyan worker has the right to fair pay and a safe workplace. He referenced the 2024 Social Protection Bill, approved by the Cabinet, which aims to address gaps in social protection through improved legislation, coordination, and funding.

President Ruto concluded by affirming the government's dedication to enforcing labor laws and engaging in continuous social dialogues with unions and employers to safeguard workers' rights.