Workers flock to Vihiga for Labour Day celebrations

Kenyan workers mark 61st Labour Day/SCREENGRAB

A section of Kenyan workers have streamed into Vihiga County ahead of the national Labour Day celebrations.

The celebrations, to be held at Chavakali High School, saw Kenyans turn the early Friday morning arrival into a colourful display of corporate identity, placards, and coordinated uniforms.

Workers drawn largely from parastatals and major companies arrived in groups, filling the venue with organised processions that reflected both celebration and messaging on workplace conditions.

Different teams were dressed in uniforms representing their respective workplaces, with hospitality workers among those drawing attention in white chef attire.

Others in corporate and industrial sectors also arrived in branded outfits, underscoring the diversity of the country’s workforce gathered for the national event.

As they made their way into the venue, some workers carried placards bearing messages linked to Labour Day themes, including calls for improved working conditions, recognition of workers’ contributions, and expectations of better remuneration.

Several groups also incorporated their company products into the procession, using the occasion to display and market items such as agricultural produce and branded goods, including pineapples and packaged products.

The displays added a commercial tone to the celebrations, blending labour recognition with corporate promotion.

Addressing members of the media on arrival, a representative from one of the participating groups said workers were hopeful that President William Ruto would use his Labour Day address to respond to wage concerns.

“We expect the President during his speech to say something concerning wages so that at the end of the month, we shall go to the ATM smiling,” the representative said.

The remarks reflected a recurring theme among sections of workers who have consistently raised concerns over the cost of living and salary adjustments amid economic pressures.

Inside the venue, the atmosphere was also marked by coordinated performances as choirs from various institutions sang and entertained early arrivals, adding a festive tone to the national event.

The performances blended with marching groups, further highlighting the organised participation of different institutions.

Heavy security was witnessed at the venue as authorities prepared for the national celebrations, which are expected to be led by President William Ruto.

Security personnel were stationed at strategic points as workers continued to stream in throughout the morning.

Despite the early cold weather, Kenyans braved the conditions to attend the event in large numbers, filling the grounds of Chavakali High School as preparations continued for the main address.

Labour Day, observed annually, provides an opportunity to recognise the contribution of workers across all sectors of the economy.

This marks the 61st Labour Day celebrations.

As the national ceremony gets underway, attention now shifts to the President’s address, which workers hope will respond to their expectations on wages, employment conditions, and broader economic challenges affecting households across the country.