KWAL Officially Launches Feminine Leave Policy

Kenya Wine Agencies Limited (KWAL) has taken a significant step to advance workplace inclusion with the launch of a Feminine Leave Policy, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging initiatives.

In recognition of health-related challenges associated with menstruation, perimenopause and menopause, the policy introduces one (1) day of paid leave per month for employees.

“At KWAL, Care for People is at the heart of everything we do. Advancing gender equity means recognizing 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. It is not only the right thing to do, but it also strengthens our culture, engagement and performance,” said Lina Githuka, Managing Director, KWAL.

The policy was announced in alignment with World Menstrual Hygiene Day under the global theme “Together for a period-friendly world” and will take effect from 1st June 2026.

The initiative reflects KWAL’s continued focus on holistic wellbeing and equitable workplace practices. By addressing under-recognized aspects of employee wellbeing, the policy aims to remove barriers to full workplace participation, supporting employees and encouraging open, stigma-free conversations around women’s health. “This will strengthen our culture of respect, inclusion and psychological safety within KWAL and empower our employees,” said Ms. Githuka.

Global studies continue to highlight the impact of menstrual health on attendance, productivity and overall employee experience. By proactively addressing this need, KWAL joins a growing group of forward-thinking organisations embedding inclusive wellbeing into business strategy, while helping to normalise conversations around women’s health in the workplace.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), menstrual pain (dysmenorrhea) affects an estimated 50% to 90% of menstruating women, making it a leading but under-discussed wellness issue. Furthermore, research published in the BMJ Open medical journal reveals that nearly 1 in 5 women have missed work due to menstrual symptoms, while many more attend work despite severe discomfort (in a practice known as “presenteeism”), resulting in reduced concentration and productivity. Progressive workplaces in countries like Spain, Japan, and Zambia have already integrated menstrual health into their core wellness strategies.

The initiative further strengthens KWAL’s ambition to attract and retain diverse talent, enable equitable growth opportunities for women, and reinforce its reputation as an employer of choice.

Aligned to HEINEKEN’s Brew a Better World ambition, KWAL remains committed to building a workplace where everyone feels a true sense of belonging and has equal opportunity to succeed.

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