NAIROBI, Kenya (AP) – A simple lunch chat between a county governor and a cabinet member about a colleague’s menstrual discomfort sparked a significant development: Kenya’s introduction of menstrual leave for female employees.
This policy officially began in December 2025, allowing civil servants in Nairobi two days off each month to address menstrual pain. The intention is to enhance workplace productivity and improve employee well-being.
Governor Johnson Sakaja mentioned that the central government is keenly observing the initiative, and he’s received positive interest from other county governors as well.
“Our workforce is our greatest asset,” Sakaja stated, noting that over half of Nairobi’s 18,000 employees are women. “To cultivate respect and dignity within the workplace, we must start by honoring their needs.”
Governor: “Women’s rights do not hinder productivity”
The response from the public has largely been favorable. Some critics worry that this could discourage employers from hiring women, but Sakaja argues that with the right support, women often excel beyond their male counterparts.
Currently, women are leading key sectors in the Nairobi County Government.
“Historically, labor policies have been designed primarily by men,” he noted. “Advancing women’s rights is not only compatible with productivity; it’s actually an investment in our workforce.”
He also asserted that the policy won’t financially burden the county since there are multiple staff members in every role.
“If a few individuals in a department take a day or two off, it wouldn’t cause a meltdown,” he remarked.
Japan was the first to adopt such a policy.
Japan implemented a menstrual leave policy back in 1947, with Spain being the most recent country to introduce a similar policy in 2023. Other nations to adopt it include Indonesia and South Korea.
In Africa, only Zambia has put forth a national menstrual leave policy, permitting female workers to take one day off monthly without the need for a doctor’s note.
Advocates of these policies maintain that they recognize menstruation as a legitimate health concern in the workplace.
Nairobi County’s Human Resources Director, Janet Opiata, remarked on the positive reception from public service employees, stating it’s been refreshing and has the potential to improve productivity upon their return.
At least a dozen women, including senior leadership, benefitted from the leave in February, as per Opiata.
The policy is described as a “no questions asked” system, offering paid time off in addition to regular sick leave as mandated by labor regulations. It was implemented through a county government ordinance and an internal memo.
Stigma remains a barrier for some women
Marion Capuya, a 25-year-old county revenue official, highlighted the positive impact of the policy, saying, “Working through discomfort can lead to errors and decreased productivity. Your best performance comes when you’re pain-free.”
However, she acknowledged that stigma surrounding menstrual leave persists in many workplaces.
“It’s tough to say, ‘Sorry, I can’t work because of my period,’” she added.
The governor noted that even with the new policy, some may find it uncomfortable to disclose that they’re using leave specifically for menstrual issues.
Christine Akinyi, a private sector employee in Nairobi, felt that while the two-day leave is a solid start, it might be better to extend it to four days. Still, she raised concerns about potential biases in hiring practices.
“Employers might lean towards hiring men since they wouldn’t need this kind of leave,” she expressed.
Menstrual difficulties include vomiting and severe headaches
According to Eunice Cheselem, a gynecologist in Nairobi, about half of the women who consult her experience severe menstrual pain. Kenya lacks comprehensive national data on this issue.
“Severe cramps can incapacitate some women. Many face symptoms such as vomiting, intense headaches, and diarrhea,” she explained. “While some respond to common pain medications, many require stronger medications just to manage.”
Dr. Cheselem emphasized that Nairobi County’s initiative offers essential relief and time for women to prioritize their health.
