Nairobi Becomes Kenya’s First County to Formalize Menstrual Leave
The Nairobi City County Government, via County Executive Committee Memorandum No. 43 of 2025, signed in December 2025 by the CEC Member for Boroughs, Administration & Personnel, S.G. Mwangi, announced the creation of a policy granting two monthly menstrual health days (MHDs) for women employees within the County Executive.
The memorandum states, in part, that it seeks approval from the County Executive Committee to adopt and implement the recommendations in the attached Position Paper on Establishing Two Monthly Menstrual Hygiene Days as a formal human resources policy for Nairobi City County Government.
On December 16, 2025, Nairobi County became the first in Kenya to adopt such a policy. It addresses menstrual health challenges, notably dysmenorrhea, which significantly impacts women’s well-being and workplace productivity. Evidence indicates that 65–80% of women experience menstrual pain, with many cases severe enough to hinder work performance.
Nairobi City County Government employs a large proportion of women, many of whom are of reproductive age and regularly experience menstrual pain. This policy is expected to reduce productivity losses and presenteeism, providing much-needed relief.
What the two monthly menstrual days entail:
1. The leave is fully paid and treated as a special allowance, with no deduction from annual or sick leave.
2. No medical documentation is required; employees self-declare the absence.
3. The policy supports girls’ and women’s health by addressing the high prevalence of menstrual pain and its impact on work and daily life.
4. There is no direct cost to the organization, as the plan fits within existing HR structures, and anticipated productivity gains should offset minor administrative expenses.
Other countries with monthly menstrual leave
Following Nairobi’s approval, Kenya joins a group of nations that recognize menstrual leave. Countries with similar entitlements include Zambia, Japan, and South Korea, where the Labour Standards Act provides for one day of menstrual leave each month. Indonesia recognizes two statutory days—taken on the first and second days of menstruation when pain is reported—while Spain implemented a comparable measure in 2023.
Why a menstrual leave policy matters
- It addresses a historically overlooked issue that can cause unquantified productivity losses and diminished morale.
- It aligns with global trends where similar policies exist in various countries.
- It signals progressive leadership and a commitment to gender equality, decent work, and inclusive governance.
- It helps challenge taboos surrounding menstruation and can boost the confidence and well-being of female employees.
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Immaculate Ndinda is a junior correspondent for The Kenya Times, known for engaging storytelling and collaborative reporting. Reach her via the publication’s contact channels.
