President William Ruto delivers his speech during Labour Day celebrations at Chavakali High School in Vihiga county, May 1, 2026. /PCS



President William Ruto has announced a 12 per cent increase in minimum wages for Kenyan workers and a 15 per cent pay rise for agricultural workers.

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Ruto made the announcement during Labour Day celebrations in Vihiga county. 

The President announced that his administration has raised workers' salaries following a request by workers through the Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU).

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"Finally, in recognition of the sacrifice, resilience, and immense contribution of our workers to the growth and stability of our economy, I am pleased to announce a 12 per cent increase in general wages and a 15 per cent increase in agricultural wages," Ruto said.

The President said following his directive to ratify the International Labour Organisation (ILO) Convention No. 189 on Decent Work for Domestic Workers and ILO Convention No. 190 on the Elimination of Violence and Harassment in the World of Work, the National Labour Board has completed the ratification process.

He said the Ministry of Labour is now in the final stages of preparing the necessary instruments for submission to Cabinet in accordance with the Treaty Making and Ratification Act and other applicable legal frameworks.

"To all Kenyan workers, Happy Labour Day. May we continue building this nation together for this and future generations, as we strive to transform Kenya into a developed economy within our lifetime."

The event, held in Vihiga county for the first time, attracted thousands of workers from across the country.

Labour Day is an annual celebration of workers and the labour movement, recognising the contribution of employees across all sectors of the economy.

The day also highlights the achievements of trade unions and the continued push for improved working conditions, fair wages, and workplace rights.

This year’s Labour Day theme  is “We Support the Northern Link: Accelerating Trade through the Rironi-Malaba Highway Transformation".

Ruto said the theme reflects a clear alignment with the government’s strategic focus on infrastructure as a key driver of economic transformation, regional integration and job creation.

In many countries, Labour Day is observed on different dates depending on historical and national significance.

However, in most parts of the world, it is closely linked to International Workers’ Day, which is marked on May 1 each year.

The date traces its roots to the 1886 general strike in the United States, which was part of the broader eight-hour day movement advocating for balanced working hours, recreation, and rest.

In Kenya, Labour Day 2026 is being observed on Friday, May 1, as a public holiday dedicated to honouring workers’ contributions to national development.

The relocation of the national celebrations to Vihiga has attracted wide participation, with workers from various sectors, including parastatals, private companies, and service industries, streaming into the venue.

Many arrived in organised groups, dressed in uniforms representing their workplaces, while others displayed placards highlighting workplace messages, achievements, and expectations.