Kenya Wine Agencies Limited (KWAL) has launched a Feminine Leave Policy that grants female employees one day of paid leave every month to address health-related challenges associated with menstruation, perimenopause, and menopause.
The policy, which took effect on June 1, 2026, was announced in line with World Menstrual Hygiene Day, commemorated globally on May 28 under the theme “Together for a period-friendly world.”
Supporting Women’s Health and Wellbeing
KWAL said the initiative is part of its broader commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEIB) and seeks to create a supportive work environment where women can perform at their best without compromising their health.
Speaking during the announcement, Managing Director Lina Githuka said the company recognises the unique health challenges women face and is taking deliberate action to address them.
“At KWAL, Care for People is at the heart of everything we do. Advancing gender equity means recognising and responding to the realities that impact women’s wellbeing at work. The introduction of Feminine Leave is an important step in creating an environment where our people can perform at their best, without compromise,” she said.
Breaking the Stigma Around Women’s Health
According to KWAL, the policy is designed to encourage open and stigma-free conversations around women’s health while removing barriers that may hinder full workplace participation.
The company noted that the initiative will strengthen a culture of respect, inclusion, and psychological safety, enabling employees to feel supported and empowered.
“This will strengthen our culture of respect, inclusion and psychological safety within KWAL and empower our employees,” Githuka added.
Addressing a Global Workplace Challenge
The move comes amid growing global recognition of the impact of menstrual health on employee wellbeing and productivity. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), menstrual pain affects between 50 and 90 per cent of menstruating women worldwide.
Research published in the BMJ Open medical journal also shows that nearly one in five women have missed work due to menstrual symptoms, while many others continue working despite severe discomfort, leading to reduced concentration and productivity.
Countries such as Spain, Japan, and Zambia have already incorporated menstrual health considerations into workplace wellness policies.
Strengthening Diversity and Talent Retention
KWAL said the Feminine Leave Policy aligns with its ambition to attract and retain diverse talent, create equitable growth opportunities for women, and strengthen its reputation as an employer of choice.
The initiative is also aligned with HEINEKEN’s commitment under its Brew a Better World strategy, which seeks to foster inclusive workplaces where all employees feel a genuine sense of belonging and have equal opportunities to succeed.
Through the policy, KWAL joins a growing number of organisations worldwide that are embedding inclusive wellbeing practices into their business strategies while helping normalise conversations around women’s health in the workplace.