Employers have implemented changes in the minimum wage that will see house workers, security guards, and drivers, among others, earn at least KSh 16,113.75 per month. Labour Cabinet Secretary (CS) Alfred Mutua speaking at a past event. The Regulation of Wages (Amendment) Order 2024, published in November 2024, advocates for a 6% increase in the minimum wage for Kenyans working in various sectors.
When will minimum wage take effect? The new minimum wage changes will see house servants and watchmen in Nairobi, Mombasa, and other major towns pocket at least KSh 16,113.75 in the November 2024 paycheck. . Speaking exclusively to TUKO.co.ke, the Federation of Kenya Employers (FKE) CEO Jacqueline Mugo confirmed that FKE members have implemented the necessary adjustments to comply with the new minimum wage requirements.
“FKE pushed for the 6% not to be applied retrospectively and for the employers to be given one month to adjust their payrolls. The government adopted the position leading to the gazettement of the new order in October 2024,” said Mugo. Mugo noted that FKE submitted the employers’ position, which highlighted the prevailing economic situation in different enterprises and the challenges caused by high labour costs.
The federation asked for a limit in statutory minimum wage increase proposals to a maximum of 6%, as pronounced by President William Ruto during Labour Day celebrations in May 2024. Labour Cabinet Secretary (CS) Alfred Mutua said the minimum wage increase will take effect on November 1, 2024. Which other categories will benefit? The wage increase covers a range of job categories, including unskilled labourers, drivers, and other jobs.
CS Mutua said the changes are aimed at ensuring that all employees in the sector receive fair compensation. For instance, an unskilled employee will earn a minimum monthly wage of KSh 7,997.33, or KSh 335.86 per day. A stockman or herdsman, who typically handles livestock, will see their wages rise to KSh 9,235.78 monthly, or KSh 391.14 per day.
by Wycliffe Musalia