Kenyans pose tough questions on Sakaja's new menstrual leave policy

Kenyans pose tough questions on Sakaja's new menstrual leave policy City Hall's new policy to grant two menstrual leave days every month has sparked debate online, with some Kenyans questioning both the practicality and long-term implications of the policy. The policy, approved by the county cabinet, is aimed at improving the welfare of women employees by formally recognising menstrual health as a workplace issue. While the move has been praised by some as progressive, others remained unconvinced, if reactions on X are anything to go by. Some critics argue that the proposal, though well-intentioned, risks reinforcing existing gender biases in employment. "Not even female doctors in Kenya take menstrual off days. This is definitely a first by the governor. I know he intends well, but he's only deepening the gender biases in employment," wrote Braim Sama. Others questioned why the policy only applies to women and whether similar accommodations should be extended to men. "Inconsiderate! Men should also get the same off days. Two days off for men to take care of issues around them that also affect their performance, monthly," another user posted. "Did they even bother to survey their female staff, like, which days this applies to, or is it just any day the cycle begins? And why only two days, when menstruation lasts longer? What about those in menopause?" Carlmaury on X asked, adding that public knowledge of menstrual leave could expose women to stigma. "If you offered allowances instead of days off, every woman would show up," they argued. There were also fears that a blanket policy could backfire in the job market. "Women should reject this blanket holiday. Why? If it becomes the norm, some employers may opt to employ male employees or underpay female employees because they would be working less," wrote Philosopher 24. Miwaga Okech described the move as "a new frontier in workers' welfare," noting its potential benefits for women who suffer severe menstrual pain. "This conversation should move toward a clear national policy, so the burden is standardised, protections are formalised, and fairness is maintained for both workers and employers," Okech wrote. Globally, menstrual leave is not new. Countries such as Japan, Indonesia and South Korea adopted similar laws as early as the mid-20th century, though multiple reports indicate that uptake has often been low due to stigma. More recently, Spain introduced paid menstrual leave for severe cases, while Zambia's "Mother's Day" grants women one day off monthly without a medical note.

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Kenyans pose tough questions on Sakaja's new menstrual leave policy

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