The Employment Act, 2007 sets minimum employment standards for all employees in Kenya. Understanding your obligations as an employer protects your business from costly labour disputes.
Annual Leave
Every employee is entitled to a minimum of 21 working days of paid annual leave for every 12 months of continuous employment. Leave must be taken — it cannot be "cashed out" without the employee's agreement. Unused leave carries over.
Sick Leave
Employees are entitled to 7 days of full pay and a further 7 days of half pay per year after 2 months of service. A medical certificate is required for extended sick leave.
Maternity and Paternity Leave
- Maternity: 3 months (90 days) fully paid maternity leave. The employer pays full salary during this period.
- Paternity: 2 weeks (14 days) fully paid paternity leave.
Termination Entitlements
Upon termination (other than summary dismissal for gross misconduct), employees are entitled to notice pay (1 month per year of service up to 6 months), accrued leave pay, and certificate of service.
Avatechtax helps businesses draft compliant employment contracts, manage leave records, and process all statutory payroll deductions accurately.
