As most African countries mark Labour Day celebrations today, Thursday, May 1, a section of Kenyans is soaking in envy after Rwanda declared Friday, May 2, a holiday for its citizens. The Kenyans want their government to follow suit, some not believing they will be back at work on Friday before the weekend kicks in.
The Ministry of Public Service and Labour in Rwanda announced that the government had granted an additional public holiday to allow citizens to extend their Labour Day celebrations into the weekend.
“The Ministry of Public Service and Labour informs the public that tomorrow, Thursday May 1, 2025 is Labour Day and will be a public holiday. The Ministry takes this opportunity to inform the public that the Government of Rwanda has also granted a public holiday on Friday May 2, 2025. Happy Labour Day to All!,” the message read.
The move triggered mixed reactions in Kenya, with many expressing admiration and a touch of frustration over the contrast in approach.
“Quite realistic, Mheshimiwa Senator, given that very little can be done on a Friday after a holiday,” wrote one Kenyan on social media platform X (formerly Twitter).
Amid the buzz, Kiambu Senator Karungo wa Thang’wa reminded the public of a bill he introduced that proposes the extension of public holidays that fall on Tuesdays or Thursdays.
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The bill, popularly referred to as the Holiday (Amendment) Bill, sought to align Kenya with some practices that allow workers to enjoy longer weekends when holidays land midweek.
According to Senator Karungo, the bill is grounded in a concept he describes as Holiday Economics. The principal objective, he argues, is to ensure workers benefit fully from public holidays, not only by promoting rest and family time but also by supporting domestic tourism and the hospitality industry.
“The intention is to create predictable and extended breaks that allow Kenyans to travel, support local businesses, and return to work more refreshed,” the senator noted.
The senator, however, withdrew the bill in February 2025 before it could make major strides.
social media, the reminder of the bill sparked a flurry of responses.
Some supported the idea:
“Thank you my Senator … can this be gazetted please,” posted @Conversations with Es.
“Please bring back this motion… I fully support it,” added @sophia_njoroge.
@melanin_afrique: “Omg. I want.”
@joyjoy shii: “Haha am using this video as evidence on Monday.”
@Conversations with Es: “Thank you my Senator… can this be gazetted please.”
@nzullu254: “Mheshimiwa hii kitu tumeingoja kutoka usiseme… kuliendaje??”
@Folksmed Suppliers: “What happened to that legislation of yours? It was to be designed for this week☺️”
Others, however, raised concerns about the potential economic impact:
“Rwanda is a small country and losing two days of work is immaterial,” argued @ChrisMWasike.
“Understand Kenyan economics first. Casuals are paid daily, businesses thrive on working days,” noted @pashie.
The debate highlights the ongoing tension between productivity and work-life balance in Kenya.
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While public holidays are often a time to rest, they also carry broader implications for daily-wage earners and small business operators.
Labour Day in Kenya is traditionally marked with national celebrations led by trade union leaders and the president, during which adjustments to the minimum wage are often announced.
Kenya’s minimum wage stands at Sh 15,201 per month, following a 6% increase championed by the Federation of Kenya Employers in 2024.
While Rwanda enjoys an extended break, many Kenyans will resume their usual work routines on Friday, May 2.
But with the spotlight back on the Holiday (Amendment) Bill, the idea of longer weekends may once again return to the national conversation.
