Labour CS Announces New Minimum Wage for Domestic Workers in Cities
House helps and domestic workers in Kenyan cities are set to benefit from a significant wage boost following the latest government proposal to increase the minimum wage.
Labour Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua announced new rules aimed at standardizing wages across cities, municipalities, and rural areas, with the highest rates reserved for major cities like Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Eldoret, and Nakuru.
The newly gazetted wage order sets the minimum monthly pay for house helps in cities at Sh16,113, marking an increase from the previous rate of Sh15,200 set in 2018. This translates to a daily rate of Sh775 or Sh144 per hour. Other domestic roles such as cleaners, gardeners, and day watchmen will also earn at this rate.
For municipalities like Mavoko, Ruiru, and Limuru, house helps will be paid Sh14,866 per month, while their counterparts in rural areas will receive Sh8,596 monthly.
The changes follow President William Ruto’s directive during Labour Day celebrations in May, which called for a 6% increase in minimum wages. “Employers must embrace fair wages to align with the cost of living,” said Ruto, urging the creation of wage councils for sectors like agriculture and protective services.
Increased wages extend beyond domestic workers. For instance, night watchmen in cities will earn Sh17,976, while drivers of light vans are set to receive Sh21,748 per month. Meanwhile, artisans in cities will earn between Sh21,748 and Sh36,360, depending on their grade.
Labour unions, including the Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU), have welcomed the adjustments but maintained their push for a 24% wage increase, citing inflation. However, employers argue that current wages often surpass the set minimums.
Despite the government’s efforts, research reveals a disparity in actual earnings. Studies show that most domestic workers still earn an average of Sh8,841 per month, a figure far below the official minimum.
These new guidelines aim to bridge this gap, ensuring better livelihoods for domestic workers while promoting fairness in the labour market.
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Labour CS Announces New Minimum Wage for Domestic Workers in Cities
