Kenyan workers will now enjoy a 12 Per cent increase in minimum wage after a three-year freeze in pay hikes since the last wage review.
The increment takes effect immediately.
President Uhuru Kenyatta termed the move as an appreciation to workers for their critical contribution to the economy during the pandemic.
"As a caring government we find that there is a compelling case to review our wages to cushion our workers against further erosion of their purchasing power," he said.
Uhuru was speaking on Sunday at Nyayo National Stadium during Labour Day Celebrations.
The current minimum wage is Sh13,572.
This means that those earning the amount, whether in the public or private sector, will receive an increment of 12 per cent.
The 12 per cent increase translates to Sh1,628.64. Any employed worker in Kenya should therefore earn at least Sh 15,200.64 (1,628.64 + 13,572).
The amount should be reflected in their May payslip since the President said it takes effect immediately.
The labour day celebrations saw President Uhuru defend his administration from attacks over the rising cost of living.
The president said the costs of living have been fueled by Covid-19 effects and the Russia-Ukraine war.
He noted that his administration has tried its best to cushion Kenyans against the adverse effect of inflation by subsidising the cost of basic necessities.
