I remember this particular day like it was yesterday. I was working on an important project, and everything was going well until the day I started experiencing my menstrual cycle. I was going through physical excruciating pain. I couldn't concentrate properly on my work, disappointing  my peers, my boss and our partners. I was advised and took sick days off but that ended up with very little sick days to take for my other health related situations.

Periods are a normal occurrence but the pain associated with it has been normalized to the disadvantage women. This natural cycle comes with different levels of discomfort, distress and pain, at times so severe that we can barely perform normal functions like walking, let alone being able to be fully present and concentrate at work. Did you know that doctors at University College London who’ve been researching period cramps have finally ruled that these pains are as painful as heart attacks.

Expecting us to work under such circumstances is not just inhuman but also a violation of rights to fair treatment in the workplace.

Five countries have made paid period leave a right with Zambia leading Africa. Spain was the latest to join the list. In February it provided women the right to take up to 3 days off work if they are experiencing period pain.

I would like Kenya to join this club and become the second African country to make paid period leave a reality.

This petition is calling for the National Assembly to enact a legislation that will mandate all employers under the Republic of Kenya to:

1. Grant women employees who are experiencing painful or uncomfortable menstrual symptoms paid three days off work per month. 

2. Increase sick leave days and indicate clearly that it includes period-related symptoms

There is overwhelming evidence that period leaves have a tremendous positive impact on all employees as it indicates the intentions and commitment of the employer to the holistic health and wellbeing of the employees. It has also been observed from countries that have implemented paid period leave that it has resulted in reduced stigma and increase in comfortability and productivity for all staff including those who would not ordinarily experience period pain. Contrary to popular beliefs, paid period leave will lead to more women joining the workforce and this will boost the economy as well.

Sign the petition and join me in calling for gender inclusivity and equity in the workplace.