Househelps Salary in Kenya: A Comprehensive Guide (2023)

Househelps, nannies, maids, or simply 'aunties' as many affectionately refer to them in Kenya play a fundamental role in many households. From cooking, cleaning, and ensuring that kids are cared for, they wear many hats. But how much do they earn, and what legal regulations surround their employment? Let's delve deeper.

Understanding the Role of HouseHelps in Kenya.

When one hears the term "nanny," the primary thought might be of someone exclusively responsible for children. However, in the Kenyan context, their duties often extend beyond childcare. Househelps in Kenya may also be responsible for cooking, cleaning, and even managing the household when the primary breadwinners are at work. As such, the terminology differs, with terms like housemaids, maids, or even 'aunties' becoming commonplace.

It's also worth noting that their compensation structures differ from regular jobs. Most households aren't subject to state deductions like the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) and NSSF contributions.

How Do Kenyans Find and Hire House Help?

The hiring process for households in Kenya is quite distinctive. They are only sometimes found through formal job listings but more through word of mouth, personal referrals, or social media. Some families even utilize nanny agencies. However, a casual interview, often done at the employer's home, is a usual procedure. During this process, potential employers gauge the house help's background, social skills, experience with children, and general charisma.

Determining the Salary of Househelps

The burning question many have is, "How much does a househelp earn in Kenya in 2023?" The answer varies significantly. Factors like the location of work, the economic standing of the employing family, and the specific nature of the contract play a part.

On average:

• Househelps earn between Ksh6,000 to Ksh13,000 in many Kenyan regions.
• In urban zones like Nairobi, Kisumu, Nakuru, Eldoret, and Mombasa, the figure ranges from Ksh8,000 to Ksh15,000.
• Those working for exceptionally affluent families might even pocket upwards of Ksh20,000.

Another interesting aspect to consider is the type of contract. Full-time househelps, who also live with the family, generally receive around Ksh10,000 monthly. In contrast, those who operate on a more flexible, sometimes daily schedule take home about Ksh8,000 monthly.

For those aiming for higher earnings, posh estates such as Karen, Runda, Muthaiga, Lavington, and Kileleshwa might be the places to look. Here, many house helpers take on more managerial roles and can earn an average of Ksh18,000.

Legal Protection for Househelps

The Kenyan Constitution doesn't disregard househelps. These workers provide crucial services and are well protected under the law.

For instance:

• The Employment Act mandates that they should rest at least one day every week.
• They are entitled to a 21-day fully paid leave after a year of work.
• Maternity leave of three months (paid) is compulsory.
• If they fall ill, a paid sick leave of seven days is given, provided they've been working consecutively for two months.

All these are in effect provided that the house helps give a week's notice to their employers.

Minimum Wage Regulations for Househelps

As of 2022, the Regulation of Wages (General) (Amendment) Order has set specific minimum wages for househelps:

• Ksh15,201.65 per month for major cities like Nairobi, Kisumu, Mombasa, and Nakuru.
• Ksh14,025.40 for metropolitan areas such as Ruiru and Limuru.
• Ksh8,109.90 for other regions.

Daily and hourly rates range between Ksh411 – Ksh731.50 and Ksh75.95 to Ksh135.90, respectively.

What are the Common Duties and Responsibilities of Househelps in Kenya?

Househelps is integral to many Kenyan households, providing essential support to families and individuals. Their duties and responsibilities can vary depending on the specific needs of their employers, but there are some everyday tasks that most househelps are involved in. The following are some of the most common duties and responsibilities of househelps in Kenya:

• Household chores: This includes tasks such as cleaning, cooking, washing clothes, and ironing.
• Childcare: Many househelps are also responsible for caring for children, including feeding them, bathing them, and putting them to bed.
• Pet care: Some househelps may also be responsible for caring for pets, such as walking dogs or feeding cats.
• Running errands could include tasks such as going to the grocery store, picking up dry cleaning, or dropping off children at school.
• Providing companionship: Househelps often become close members of the families they work for and can provide much-needed companionship and support.

It is important to note that the specific duties and responsibilities of a househelp will vary depending on the needs of their employer and the terms of their employment contract. It is essential to understand what is expected of the househelp before they start working and to ensure they are compensated fairly for their services.

How can employers ensure a safe and secure environment for their househelps?

You can do several things to create a safe and secure environment for your househelps. Some of these measures include:

• Creating a safe workspace: This includes providing your househelps with adequate safety equipment, such as gloves, masks, and goggles, and training them on proper safety procedures. You should also make sure that your home is free of hazards, such as tripping hazards, loose electrical wires, and sharp objects.
• Preventing accidents includes keeping your home clean and orderly and ensuring that all appliances and electrical outlets are in good working order. You should also provide your househelps with clear instructions on safely using all equipment and appliances.
• Responding to emergencies: You should have a plan for responding to emergencies, such as fires, accidents, and medical emergencies. You should also provide your househelps with basic first aid and CPR training.

READ ALSO: How to Determine if Your Kenyan Passport is Ready for Collection (www.immigration.go.ke)

Final Thoughts

Househelps, with their versatile roles in Kenyan households, have become an integral part of many families. Their salaries, although varied, have seen some form of regulation, ensuring that they aren't exploited. However, as is with many job sectors, continuous dialogue and understanding between employers and employees are crucial for a harmonious working relationship. Knowledge of these salary structures and legal regulations is invaluable for those considering employing or becoming a household in Kenya.