Civil servants in Kenya’s national government are beginning 2026 on a positive note after the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) approved a pay rise that will be backdated to July 1, 2025. The salary adjustment forms part of Phase I of the 2025–2029 remuneration and benefits review cycle.
The development was confirmed through a circular shared by Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU) Secretary General Francis Atwoli. According to the circular, the SRC, during its meeting held on December 19, 2025, deliberated on and approved adjustments to basic salaries and leave allowances for civil servants across all job grades.
The SRC decision followed formal consultations and submissions made by the Ministry of Public Service. In the communication addressed to Public Service Principal Secretary Jane Imbunya, the commission referenced earlier correspondence on negotiations guidelines for the fourth remuneration review cycle covering the 2025–2029 period.
“Reference is made to your letters Ref. No. MPS&HCD.12 dated September 2, 2025, on the guidelines for negotiations on the remuneration and benefits review cycle 2025–2029, and Ref. No. MPSP&DM/9/1 dated December 11, 2025, on the above subject,” the circular read in part.
The backdated pay rise means affected civil servants will receive arrears dating back to July 2025, offering financial relief amid rising living costs. Labour leaders have welcomed the move, terming it a timely boost for public servants.
Implementation details are expected to be communicated by the government in the coming weeks as ministries begin adjusting payrolls in line with the new SRC-approved structure.