Nairobi County has become the first in Kenya to introduce a formal two-day paid menstrual leave for female county employees, a policy aimed at improving well-being and workplace productivity.
The policy, implemented in December 2025, allows women to take two consecutive days off each month without submitting forms or letters, simply notifying their immediate supervisors. Governor Johnson Sakaja described the move as a measure to address “presentism,” ensuring employees are genuinely able to perform at work.
“To avoid this presentism, where you are just there, let us give the ladies two days. Any of their two days consecutive. No questions asked, no forms filled, no letter written,” Sakaja said, adding that the policy reflects a commitment to employee welfare.
The initiative has received positive feedback from county staff. Janet Opiata, Nairobi County Chief Officer for Public Service, said: “The feedback…is that it is very refreshing. When they come back, they are able to work even better, seeing it as something leadership has looked into that has improved their welfare.”
Medical professionals have highlighted the health benefits of the policy. Gynecologist Eunice Cheserem explained that severe menstrual pain can make women temporarily non-functional, causing vomiting, headaches, diarrhea, and debilitating cramps that are not always relieved by conventional painkillers. “During that time, even feeding is a challenge,” she noted.
However, some critics warn of potential unintended consequences. Businesswoman Christine Akinyi suggested that limiting leave to two days may be insufficient for some women experiencing longer cycles of pain, and that employers might favor male hires to avoid these absences.
Despite debate, Nairobi’s policy marks a pioneering step in Africa toward formally recognizing menstruation as a workplace health issue. Observers suggest that other counties and even national agencies may follow suit, potentially reshaping employment practices for women across the continent.
