A new national report has raised alarm over growing levels of workplace stress among Kenyan employees, warning that the trend is increasingly affecting both mental and physical health. The study, conducted by a consortium of occupational health experts and labor organizations, reveals that long working hours, understaffing, job insecurity, and high performance demands are pushing many workers to burnout. Researchers say the findings should prompt urgent action from employers and policymakers as stress-related illnesses continue to rise across different sectors.
According to the report, employees in banking, telecommunications, healthcare, and the public service are among the most affected, with many citing anxiety, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and declining productivity. The study highlights that the economic pressures of recent years—combined with rapid digitization and increased workload expectations—have created a stressful environment for workers at all levels. Experts note that unmanaged workplace stress is now linked to a surge in hypertension, depression, and lifestyle-related complications, particularly among young professionals in urban centers.
Reactions from workers’ unions and mental health advocates have been swift, with calls for companies to prioritize employee well-being through structured wellness programs, flexible work policies, and better communication channels. Union leaders argue that employers often overlook early warning signs and fail to provide supportive environments where employees can speak up without fear of repercussions. The Kenya Medical Association has also urged organizations to incorporate routine mental health screenings, noting that early intervention can significantly reduce long-term health consequences.
Looking forward, the report recommends stronger government oversight to enforce occupational health standards, mandatory stress management policies in workplaces, and increased public education on mental health. Experts warn that without timely intervention, workplace stress could undermine national productivity and contribute to a broader public health crisis. The Ministry of Labour is expected to review the recommendations as part of ongoing efforts to improve worker welfare policies.