President Ruto arrives for Labour Day celebrations in Vihiga

President William Ruto has arrived for the Labour Day celebrations.

The President arrived at Chavakali High School in Vihiga County at 10:50 am.

He was received by Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi.

Also present during the event were Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU) Secretary General Francis Atwoli, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula, among other leaders.

Upon arrival, the President proceeded to the podium accompanied by the leaders. A group comprising military personnel played the national anthem as well as the East African Community anthem.

After the anthems, the celebrations continued with a vibrant entertainment segment featuring several choirs performing traditional and contemporary local songs.

This was followed by a procession of various parastatals and organisations, whose members marched across the centre of the grounds in an organised display.

Among the notable groups was the Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU), whose members held a large placard branded with the theme of the day’s celebrations.

Also prominently featured were representatives from women’s groups, persons with disabilities, and youth organisations, whose placards carried a variety of messages highlighting inclusion, empowerment, and workers’ rights. Other participating bodies included the Kenya Union of Commercial, Food and Allied Workers, the Communication Workers of Kenya, Posta Kenya, KenGen, and the Engineering Workers Union, among others.

Each group showcased its identity and role within the labour sector.

Participants were dressed according to their respective industries and professions. Some wore official uniforms, while others appeared in branded vests, safety helmets, and other occupational gear, reflecting the nature of their work environments.

Throughout the procession, the master of ceremonies (MC) introduced each group in turn, commending them for their contribution to national development and the essential work they undertake in their respective sectors.

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

This year’s national celebrations are being held at Chavakali High School in Vihiga County. This marks the first time the event is being held outside Nairobi.

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.

President William Ruto will preside over the national event and deliver a key address focusing on labour issues.