By Emmanuel Nduka Obisue
A new policy granting female employees in Nairobi two days of paid menstrual leave each month is drawing both praise and debate, as Kenya’s capital takes a bold step toward recognising women’s health in the workplace.
Introduced in December 2025, the initiative allows women to take two consecutive days off during their menstrual cycle without providing medical documentation or formal applications. Officials say the policy aims to improve staff welfare and productivity by addressing the impact of menstrual pain on performance.
Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja said the move is designed to eliminate “presenteeism,” where employees are physically present at work but unable to perform effectively due to health challenges. Under the policy, affected workers simply notify their supervisors before taking the leave.
Early feedback from within the county workforce suggests the measure is already yielding positive results. Janet Opiata, Chief Officer for Public Service Management, noted that many employees have described the policy as refreshing, adding that staff often return to work more productive after taking the break.
Medical experts have also backed the initiative, highlighting the severity of menstrual pain for some women. Gynecologist Eunice Cheserem explained that symptoms such as severe cramps, vomiting, headaches, and fatigue can significantly limit a woman’s ability to function, sometimes requiring strong medication.
However, the policy has also raised concerns among some stakeholders, particularly around its potential impact on hiring decisions. Businesswoman Christine Akinyi warned that employers might, in the long run, favour male employees to avoid additional leave-related costs, even though she described the policy as generally positive.
Despite the mixed reactions, Nairobi’s menstrual leave policy marks a rare and progressive step in Africa toward recognising menstruation as a workplace health issue. Observers say it could influence broader conversations and policy shifts across the continent on how employers support women in professional spaces.
