Ruto Approves 12% Wage Hike, Farm Workers Get 15% Increase

President William Ruto has authorized a 12 percent raise in general wages for Kenyan employees and a 15 percent increase for agricultural workers, constituting a significant feature of the 2026 Labour Day festivities. Speaking to participants at the Labour Day celebrations in Vihiga County, Ruto revealed that his government has implemented salary increases following a proposal by workers through the Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU). “I am delighted to announce a 12 percent raise in general wages and a 15 percent increase in agricultural wages for all Kenyan workers,” President Ruto declared. The Head of State noted that the directive was aimed at. Although the 15 percent specifically targets the agriculture sector, the 12 percent increment will apply across most economic sectors, elevating the minimum earnings for millions of workers in both formal and informal employment. COTU, under the leadership of Secretary General Francis Atwoli, has consistently advocated for wage adjustments, pointing to the substantial rise in the cost of necessities including food, fuel, and housing. Nevertheless, despite Ruto’s directive, the wage increases could strain businesses, particularly small and medium enterprises still recovering from economic shocks. Speaking to the media on April 24, 2026, the Federation of Kenya Employers (FKE) Chief Executive Officer, Jacqueline Mugo, stated that many businesses continue to experience significant pressures, including high taxes and, in certain instances, restructuring and closures. “As an association of Kenyan employers, we recognize that the most recent review of minimum wage increases occurred two years ago,” Mugo mentioned. “However, we also acknowledge that businesses are facing difficulties, and we will request the government to balance the interests of businesses with those of employees.” At the event, Ruto additionally guaranteed that all workers will maintain complete protection under Kenya’s labor laws. He indicated that the government would collaborate closely with COTU, FKE and the Ministry of Labour to ensure these protections are not only established in law but also rigorously enforced in practice. In an additional enhancement for worker protections, the President disclosed progress in ratifying significant international labor agreements. Ruto verified that the National Labour Board has finalized the procedure of adopting International Labour Organisation conventions on decent work for domestic workers and the elimination of violence and harassment in the workplace.