Kenya’s capital grants women two days off each month to accommodate menstrual pain.

Employees of the county government in Nairobi are embracing a new policy that allows them two days off each month to support their menstrual health.

County government workers in Nairobi, Kenya, are welcoming a newly approved policy that gives them two days off each month to cope with the pain and discomfort of menstruation.

“We’ve received very positive feedback, especially from staff in public service management—it’s been truly refreshing. And when they return, they’re able to perform even better,” said Nairobi County Human Resource Manager Janet Opiata.

The move is already being compared to Zambia, the only African nation with a nationwide menstrual leave law that allows one day off per month without a doctor’s note. Japan was the first to introduce menstrual leave in 1947, while Spain is among the most recent, adopting the policy in 2023. Other countries with similar measures include Indonesia and South Korea.

There has been little public backlash, although some critics warn the policy could discourage employers from hiring women. Johnson Sakaja, who spearheaded the initiative and oversees a workforce of more than 18,000 employees—over half of them women—disagrees, emphasizing that women perform better when they are properly supported.

“Many labor policies were crafted years ago by men,” the governor said. “Supporting women’s rights isn’t anti-productivity—it actually drives it. It’s an investment in the workforce.”

Women currently lead Nairobi County’s business and health departments, and Sakaja noted that the policy won’t have a financial impact, as responsibilities are shared among multiple staff members.

“It won’t cause major disruption if three or four people in a department are absent for a day or two,” he said.

The governor added that Kenya’s national government and other county leaders are closely monitoring how the policy develops.

“Your greatest asset is your people,” said Johnson Sakaja. “It begins with treating your staff with dignity—making sure they feel respected and valued.”