Nicholas Kioko Calls for National Holiday for Kenyan Nannies

Kenyan content creator and influencer Nicholas Kioko has sparked debate online after calling on the government to introduce an official public holiday dedicated to house helps and nannies in Kenya.

“I think we need an official, government-gazetted public holiday specifically for nannies or house managers in Kenya,” Kioko wrote on social media, a statement that quickly attracted widespread reactions online.

Kioko said domestic workers deserve recognition for the sacrifices and hard work they put into supporting families across the country.

“They sacrifice a lot for families and deserve appreciation too.”

Mixed Reactions from Kenyans Online

Kioko’s proposal quickly went viral, attracting both support and criticism from social media users.

Some Kenyans praised the idea, saying domestic workers deserve more appreciation for helping raise children and manage homes.

“Unique ❤️🙌🙌🙌”

Others, however, questioned the need for another public holiday, pointing out that workers are already recognised during Labour Day celebrations.

“Is Labour Day a joke to him?”

Another social media user joked:

“Mnataka kila siku ya calendar ikue holiday 😂”

Some comments turned humorous, with one user asking whether watchmen would also receive their own special day.

“Na watchman 😂😂jee”

Another netizen commented:

“Holidays this year sio mingi kama ya last year 😂😂😂”

Others playfully criticised Kioko over the suggestion.

“Kioko hapendi kufukiria na hio kichwa yake😂😂😂😂.......1st May.... Ang'oa😂😂😂”

Kenyan Celebrities Speak on the Cost of House Helps

The discussion also revived conversations around the cost of employing domestic workers in Kenya compared to other countries.

Media personality Jerida Andayi previously noted that hiring house help abroad is far more expensive than it is in Kenya due to strict labour laws

and higher wages. She argued that if someone is capable of handling their own house chores, it is manageable and can help reduce costs.

Content creator Deyanna Kimani also once sparked online debate after saying people paying house helps KSh6,000 should reconsider employing domestic workers if they cannot afford fair wages.

Labour rights groups have repeatedly called for improved pay, humane working conditions and stronger protections for domestic workers, arguing that they remain among the least protected workers in the country.

Difference Between House Help Salaries in Kenya and Abroad

Many domestic workers in Kenya earn modest salaries compared to those working abroad, especially in countries in the Middle East, Europe and North America, where domestic labour is more regulated and often better paid.

In Kenya, having a house help is still considered affordable for many middle-class households. In several foreign countries, however, employing a nanny or live-in helper can cost significantly more because of labour laws, contracts and minimum wage protections.