City Hall approves menstrual off days for female staff

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja's Cabinet has approved the introduction of two monthly menstrual health off days for City Hall's women employees.

The decision means women working at Nairobi County can formally take some days off work every month while dealing with adverse symptoms of their periods. 

The Cabinet session chaired by Sakaja has formally adopted the policy as part of Nairobi City County’s human resource framework.

According to communication shared Tuesday, the decision was anchored on the menstrual health challenges, particularly dysmenorrhea, that affect women’s wellbeing and performance at work. 

"Studies cited indicate that between 65 and 80 percent of women experience menstrual pain, with a considerable number suffering symptoms severe enough to impair productivity. 
Women make up more than half of Nairobi County’s workforce, meaning the impact is reflected in reduced efficiency, increased presenteeism and compromised service delivery," the despatch said.

"Until now, menstrual health had not been recognised in existing HR policies, often forcing women to report to work while unwell. The newly approved policy addresses this gap by allowing two monthly Menstrual Health Days, providing structured support without imposing additional financial strain on the county."

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