Salasya Backs Bi-Weekly Pay Amendment, Cites Benefits for Workers and Economy

Nairobi, Kenya — September 27, 2025 (EAT).

Mumias East MP Peter Salasya has proposed amending Section 18 of the Employment Act to permit employers to pay workers bi-weekly (twice a month) rather than the current monthly model. He argues such a change would improve worker liquidity, reduce cash-flow stress, and stimulate economic activity.

The Latest

• Salasya presented his motion in Parliament proposing that the law be revised to allow more flexible salary schedules.

• He said many workers struggle to make ends meet before month-end, leading to reliance on high-interest credit or informal debt cycles.

• “Paying workers bi-weekly gives them breathing space, stabilises household budgets, and keeps local markets active,” Salasya argued.

• The motion has reignited debate on labor reforms, employer burdens, and payroll administration in both public and private sectors.

Legal & Policy Context

• Employment Act, Section 18 currently mandates that employees must be paid at least once every month.

• Several countries allow weekly or bi-weekly pay, particularly for hourly workers or informal sector roles, with adjustment mechanisms for payroll systems.

• Kenya has not significantly revised its wage payment norms in decades; Salasya’s motion is one of the first to challenge the monthly salary status quo.

Potential Benefits

Challenges & Risks

• Administrative burden: Employers—especially SMEs—may face increased payroll processing costs, accounting, cash management pressures.

• Cash-flow for employers: Smaller firms may struggle to manage their own finances if forced into more frequent outlays.

• Transition complexity: Adjusting existing contracts, payroll systems, unions, collective bargaining agreements will require careful regulation and phased implementation.

• Disparities across sectors: Some sectors (e.g. agriculture, seasonal work) may find bi-weekly pay harder to harmonize than stable salaried roles.

Reactions & Stakeholder Perspectives

• Worker advocates / unions: Many are expected to support the idea, as it aligns with demands for better worker protections and income predictability.

• Business community / SMEs: Likely to raise concerns about implementation cost, cash management logistics, and possible strain on liquidity.

• Government / Ministry of Labour: Will need to examine the legal, fiscal and enforcement implications.

• Economists: Some may welcome the potential stimulus effect; others may warn about inflation or business strain if not managed well.

What We Don’t Know Yet

• Whether the motion will be formally tabled or forwarded to committee.

• The timeline for possible adoption, stakeholder consultations, or transitional rules.

• Whether exemptions or thresholds (e.g. small employers) will be proposed.

• The fiscal and economic modelling behind predicted benefits versus costs.