In Kenya, International Workers Day, commonly known as Labour Day is a holiday celebrated every 1st of May, to mark the efforts of working individuals and their contributions to the country’s economy.
Labour day is recognized in various countries worldwide. The day has its history rooted in the Labour Movement, which fought for better working conditions and rights for workers.
“The first May Day celebrations focused on workers took place on May 1st, 1890, after its proclamation by the first international congress of socialist parties in Europe on July 14th, 1889, in Paris, France, to dedicate May 1st every year as the “Workers Day of International Unity and Solidarity.”
The date was chosen due to events on the other side of the Atlantic. In 1884 the American Federation of Organized Trades and Labor Unions demanded an eight-hour workday, to come in effect as of May 1st, 1886. This resulted in the general strike and the Haymarket (in Chicago) Riot of 1886, but eventually also in the official sanction of the eight-hour workday.”
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Labor unions and other workers’ organizations typically plan celebrations, marked by parades, speeches, and rallies. Teachers, doctors, and government employees are among the workers from various industries who participate in the events to show their support for workers’ rights.
According to the Central Organizations of Trade Unions (COTU-K), this year’s Labour Day theme in Kenya will be “Kenyan Workers for Economic Growth, Political Stability and Job Creation.”
During last year’s Labour Day, former president Uhuru Kenyatta declared a 12% minimum wage increase for workers, saying the higher wages would cushion workers against further erosion of their purchasing power and guarantee the economy’s competitiveness.
Among the things discussed during Labour Day are.
- Salary increment- All working individuals should have a salary increment subject to the high cost of living and the economic situation.
- Health and safety of workers- Every employer in Kenya should ensure that their employees work in a conducive environment that meet the health standards as outlined in the constitution.
- Workers’ constitutional rights- All workers are supposed to receive the utmost attention and recognition for the work they do towards the development of the country.
