Kenya’s Nairobi County grants paid menstrual leave

The Nairobi City County Government has approved a policy granting women two days of paid menstrual leave every month, according to Africanews on December 22nd.

The policy allows female employees to take time off during their menstrual cycle without using their sick or annual leave. Nairobi is one of the first county governments in Kenya to formally recognise menstrual pain as a legitimate workplace health issue.

The announcement has prompted debate across Kenyan social media platforms and talk shows. The measure could offer relief to women who experience severe symptoms such as cramps, migraines and fatigue, commonly associated with dysmenorrhoea. Supporters say that women should not be expected to work through pain.

However, some critics say that the policy could reinforce stereotypes about female employees and portray them as less reliable. Others argue it may influence hiring decisions in a country with high unemployment and a competitive job market. They say it could make female employees appear more costly to employ and potentially disadvantage those it aims to support.

Globally, menstrual leave policies remain uncommon. Countries such as Japan, South Korea and Zambia have introduced versions of the policy. In many cases, women are reluctant to use their leave due to stigma or backlash.

Nairobi’s decision is being closely watched across Africa to see whether the initiative could be expanded or remains symbolic. The policy comes amid broader efforts to improve women’s participation in work, education and community life across Kenya and the wider region.

The Campaign for Female Education (CAMFED) is expanding support for girls and young women in disadvantaged rural communities across Africa, including Kenya, as poverty and economic insecurity continue to limit access to education.

In Kenya’s largest informal settlement, a group of Nubian women from the Mazingira Women Initiative are reclaiming neglected urban land to grow indigenous crops, aiming to provide food and income while preserving cultural practices.

Africanews, Maghrebi.org