New Year's Day in Kenya

What the law provides

The Public Holidays Act lists New Year’s Day as 1 January and says the Part I holidays are to be kept each year. Its current text is revised through 26 April 2024. The Act records that it was assented to in 1912 and commenced in 1984.[1]

If a Part I holiday falls on Sunday, the first succeeding day that is not already a public holiday becomes the public holiday instead. This can mean a day later than Monday if Monday is itself a public holiday. The Cabinet Secretary may also declare an additional holiday or substitute another date by notice in the Gazette.[1]

Public-holiday status does not guarantee that every worker is off duty. The Act allows a government department head to open offices and require staff to work, and says the Act is subject to other written laws and individual agreements that set conditions such as pay or time off in lieu.[1]

How people mark the day

St. Paul’s University held a New Year community service organized by its chaplaincy and attended by staff and students at its Limuru campus, with its Nakuru and Nairobi campuses joining remotely. The university described the service as a time for reflection and prayer.[2]

Kenya’s National Tourism Service Portal describes nyama choma as a popular Kenyan food associated with social gatherings.[3]

Planning around the holiday

The Central Bank of Kenya’s KEPSS real-time gross settlement system operates on business days except public holidays and weekends. Check with your bank for branch hours and other services.[4]

The Public Holidays Act permits government departments to open on a public holiday, so public offices may be open. Check opening hours and transport arrangements with the relevant provider.[1] If you need a particular service or journey, check directly with the relevant office, business or transport provider.