President William Ruto is set to lead the nation in commemorating this year’s Labour Day celebrations at Uhuru Gardens, Nairobi, on Wednesday, May 1, 2025. This year’s event marks a dual milestone Kenya’s 60th Labour Day and the Diamond Jubilee of the Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU-K), making it a historic moment in the country’s labour movement.
Organized by COTU-K, the celebrations will reflect on six decades of championing workers’ rights and social justice in Kenya. The festivities will begin early in the morning, with workers, union leaders, and invited guests assembling for a vibrant procession featuring pedestrian and mechanized floats along Lang’ata Road and Uchumi Parking, led by the Administration Police Band.
Labour Cabinet Secretary Dr. Alfred Mutua is scheduled to begin the day with a visit to COTU-K headquarters in Gikomba, where he will sign the Labour Day visitors’ book. He will then proceed to Uhuru Gardens accompanied by COTU Secretary General Francis Atwoli and members of the union’s executive board.
President Ruto is expected to arrive at 9:30 a.m., where he will be received by CS Mutua and COTU leaders. The event will feature interfaith prayers, cultural performances, and a symbolic workers’ march-past. These segments are designed to honor the resilience and contributions of Kenyan workers across all sectors.
As the Chief Guest, President Ruto is anticipated to deliver a keynote address focused on employment, wages, and industrial harmony. His speech will come at a time when trade unions are pushing for wage adjustments and improved working conditions amid ongoing economic challenges and a high cost of living.
COTU officials and the Labour Cabinet Secretary will also deliver addresses outlining the progress and challenges in Kenya’s labour landscape. The 60th Labour Day celebration is not just a commemoration it is a call to action for renewed commitments to workers’ welfare and the future of decent work in Kenya.
The event is expected to draw nationwide attention as workers look to the government for policy direction and economic relief.
