President William Ruto has directed a 12 per cent increase in general wages for Kenyan workers and a 15 per cent increase for agricultural workers, marking a major highlight of the 2026 Labour Day celebrations.

Addressing attendees during the Labour Day celebrations held in Vihiga County, Ruto announced that his administration has raised workers’ salaries following a request by workers through the Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU).

“I am pleased to announce a 12 per cent increase in general wages and a 15 per cent increase in agricultural wages to all Kenyan workers,” President Ruto announced.

The Head of State noted that the directive was aimed at improving workers’ welfare amidst the rising cost of living

The event, held in Vihiga County for the first time, attracted thousands of workers from across the country, many of whom had expressed expectations for better pay and improved working conditions.

Earlier, Central Organisation for Trade Unions -Kenya (COTU-K) Francis Atwoli had requested the Head of State to increase the minimum wage by at least 23 percent.

Atwoli assured President William Ruto that the increase would put his government in a better position with workers and Kenyans at large if he made the adjustment.

“Your Excellency, if you gave us a 23 per cent minimum wage increase, your government would be stable.

“At one time, the late Mwai Kibaki gave us a 22, 18, and 14 percent minimum wage increase, and things went on well. I know your hand is bigger than that one,” Atwoli stated.