Kenya’s civil servants are set for another salary increase beginning July 1, 2026, as the government moves closer to finalising a new pay deal under a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). The adjustment, announced by Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku, is part of a broader plan to review public sector wages and benefits over the next four years.
The move comes at a time when many public servants are grappling with the rising cost of living, making the increment a significant relief for thousands of workers across government institutions.
What Has the Government Announced?
According to CS Geoffrey Ruku, the government is in the final stages of negotiating a new CBA with the Union of Kenya Civil Servants. This agreement will guide salary structures and benefits from the 2025/2026 to 2028/2029 financial cycle.
“I am aware that a pay increase took effect in January this year, but it was applied retroactively to July last year. There will be another pay rise in July this year,” Ruku said.
While the exact figures of the increment have not yet been made public, the government has confirmed that the new salary structure will affect thousands of civil servants across different job groups.
How the Salary Increment Will Be Structured
One of the key issues still under discussion is how the salary increase will be implemented. The government and union officials are considering two main options:
- A lump sum payment applied at once
- Gradual increments spread over four years
If implemented in phases, civil servants could see steady annual increases in their salaries rather than a single immediate boost. This approach would help the government manage budget pressures while still improving workers’ earnings over time.
Who Will Benefit?
The salary increment will apply to civil servants across all job groups, from CSG1 to CSG17, covering employees in ministries, departments, and state agencies.
The review will not only affect basic salaries but also allowances such as leave pay, which are often adjusted alongside salary changes. Since allowances vary depending on location and job classification, the total increase in take-home pay will differ from one employee to another.
Role of SRC in the New Pay Structure
The Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) has already approved Phase I of the 2025–2029 salary review cycle. This includes adjustments to basic pay and allowances, setting the foundation for the upcoming increment.
SRC is working closely with the Ministry of Public Service and union representatives to finalise the remaining details and ensure the new structure is sustainable and fair.
Why the Salary Review Matters
The salary review is part of the government’s effort to balance employee welfare with economic realities. With inflation and the cost of essential goods rising, public servants have been pushing for better pay to maintain their living standards.
At the same time, the government must manage its wage bill, which remains one of the largest components of public expenditure. This explains why phased implementation is being considered.
Ruku emphasised that ongoing consultations aim to strike a balance between these competing priorities while ensuring civil servants remain motivated and productive.
What Happens Next?
Once the outstanding issues are resolved, the government is expected to sign the CBA, paving the way for the July 2026 salary increment.
Civil servants can expect clearer details in the coming weeks, including how much each job group will receive and whether the increase will be implemented immediately or in phases.
For now, the announcement signals a positive shift for public sector workers, with the promise of better pay and improved working conditions in the years ahead.
