Senator’s New Bill Proposes Extended Public Holidays to Boost Tourism

A proposed Bill in the Senate could grant Kenyans the luxury of a four-day weekend whenever a public holiday lands on either Tuesday or Thursday.

The driving force behind this legislative proposal is Kiambu Senator Karungo Wa Thang’wa, who aims to prioritize the well-being of Kenyan workers and give a boost to the tourism sector.

This potential change is outlined in the Public Holidays (Amendment) Bill, 2023. The essence of this bill is to enhance extended weekends by declaring the preceding Monday a public holiday if an official holiday falls on a Tuesday.

Correspondingly, the bill suggests designating the subsequent Friday as a public holiday when a holiday falls on a Thursday.

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The rationale behind this initiative is to provide employees with substantial time off to rest, rejuvenate, spend quality moments with loved ones, and partake in meaningful celebrations or traditions.

Moreover, the proposal aims to amplify the link between holidays and travel, emphasizing their role in boosting tourism and stimulating economic growth.

The Bill underscores the potential health benefits of extended holidays, allowing individuals to fully relax and tend to their physical and mental well-being.

Drawing inspiration from successful implementations of similar measures in countries like the Philippines, Senator Thang’wa envisions a positive impact on both the tourism industry and the overall welfare of workers.

In the year 2023, the extended weekend provision would apply to three holidays: Madaraka Day, Huduma Day, and Jamhuri Day. Senator Thang’wa emphasizes that this legislative move would not only offer citizens more opportunities to enjoy the holidays but also contribute to reducing the nation’s dependency on international tourists.

The Bill upholds the rights of all Kenyans, including those residing in various counties, to partake in cultural activities, recreation, and sports. It reinforces the notion that citizens should be able to travel across counties to engage in these pursuits.

Importantly, the Bill assures that it doesn’t compromise legislative authority or limit fundamental rights and freedoms. Instead, it proposes a thoughtful enhancement that could lead to more balanced lives for Kenyan workers and a more vibrant tourism sector for the nation.