Relief for Workers as Government Approves 12% Wage Increase for Domestic Staff, Watchmen and Gardeners

Domestic workers, gardeners, watchmen, and other low-income service workers are set to earn more after the government approved a 12 per cent wage increase under a revised national minimum wage order.

The new structure, which applies across different regions of the country, raises the minimum monthly pay for domestic workers in major urban centres including Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, and Eldoret to KSh18,047, up from KSh16,113 in 2024.

Workers in former municipalities and other large urban areas such as Ruiru, Mavoko, and Limuru will now earn a minimum of KSh16,650 per month under the revised guidelines.

In smaller towns and rural areas, the minimum wage for domestic workers has been set at KSh9,268 per month.

The wage review also covers gardeners, house servants, day watchmen, messengers, and sweepers, with pay adjusted based on job category and geographical location.

Labour authorities say the adjustment is aimed at cushioning low-income workers against rising living costs while ensuring fair compensation across different sectors of informal employment.

The government has also warned employers to comply with the new wage regulations, cautioning that those who fail to adhere to the law risk penalties, including fines of up to KSh50,000, imprisonment for up to three months, or both, in line with existing labour laws.

The revision is expected to significantly impact households and small employers, particularly in urban areas, as the cost of domestic labour is set to rise in line with the new statutory requirements.

Labour experts have welcomed the move, noting that regular wage reviews are essential in maintaining fair labour standards and protecting vulnerable workers in the informal sector.

At the same time, some employers have expressed concern over increased household costs, calling for a balanced approach that considers both workers’ welfare and affordability for families.

The wage increase comes amid ongoing national discussions on the cost of living, income inequality, and the need to improve working conditions for Kenya’s informal workforce, which makes up a significant portion of the labour market.

As implementation begins, enforcement agencies are expected to intensify monitoring to ensure compliance across the country.