Kenyan civil servants are set to receive higher pay after the government approved new salary and allowance adjustments for the 2025/2026 financial year, targeting both low- and mid-level cadres across the public service.
The review is anchored on recommendations by the Salaries and Remuneration Commission and aligned with the fiscal framework of the National Treasury. The move is aimed at cushioning public servants against the rising cost of living while boosting motivation and productivity within government institutions.
Salary Increments by Cadre
Under the new structure, basic salaries for most job groups will rise within carefully targeted bands. The largest percentage increases will benefit lower cadres such as drivers, clerical officers, support staff, and junior professionals.
According to officials, the adjustments are designed to narrow the gap between the lowest and highest earners, in line with SRC principles on equity, sustainability, and affordability.
The increments will apply to:
-
National government civil servants
-
County government staff
-
Teachers
-
Select uniformed services
Implementation is expected to be phased from July 1, 2025, depending on available resources and the outcome of ongoing union consultations.
Key Allowance Changes
In addition to salary reviews, the government has harmonised several allowances. House allowances for workers in major cities have been adjusted to reflect current housing costs, while hardship allowances in marginalised regions have been reviewed to better match prevailing conditions.
The Treasury insists the changes will remain within the wage bill ceiling and comply with public finance management laws, as well as commitments under International Monetary Fund-supported fiscal plans. Some increments may, however, be staggered over the year to ease pressure on the exchequer.
Broader Public Service Reforms
Labour unions have cautiously welcomed the pay rises but argue that the gains could be quickly eroded by high statutory deductions, housing levies, and escalating living costs. Teachers’ and health workers’ unions have particularly called for timely payment of arrears and full implementation of existing collective bargaining agreements.
The government has framed the salary review as part of wider public service reforms aimed at attracting talent, improving performance, and eliminating wastage, including ghost workers. These efforts are linked to digitisation, restructuring of ministries, and tighter payroll controls to enhance service delivery.
As implementation draws closer, attention now turns to smooth rollout, industrial harmony, and whether the reforms will translate into real efficiency gains for taxpayers.