President William Ruto celebrated the 59th International Labour Day, acknowledging the vital role of Kenyan workers in driving economic progress and shaping the nation’s destiny.

Speaking during the Labour Day celebrations at Uhuru Gardens in  Nairobi, the president announced an increase of at least 6 per cent in minimum wage.

”I want the labour CS to sit with the relevant committee. I want the minimum wage increased by at least 6 per cent. They will tell me how that will be implemented,” Ruto said.

To ensure industrial peace and manage labour disputes, President Ruto instructed the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection to activate multiple wage councils outlined in the 2007 Labour Relations Act.

These include councils for seafarers and protective, general, and agricultural wages.

“They will negotiate minimum wages in different sectors, enhancing conciliation, mediation, and industrial peace,” Ruto said.

Reflecting on Kenya’s history, he emphasized the labour movement’s critical role in securing freedoms and laying the foundation for the nation’s prosperity.

The commander-in-chief reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fair wages and decent working conditions, recognizing the ongoing struggle for workers’ rights and dignity and noted the government’s commitment to fair wages and decent working conditions, recognizing the ongoing struggle for workers’ rights and dignity.

Embracing the theme of advancing IT training for Kenyan workers, Ruto highlighted the government’s efforts to digitize the economy and boost productivity through technology.

He also emphasized the importance of labour migration agreements and social protection measures to safeguard workers’ rights and promote sustainable development, calling for responsible industrial action and economic prudence