To hire a nanny in Kenya, decide what you need (live-in or live-out, hours, duties and budget), shortlist a few candidates, interview them, call their references, ask for ID and a Certificate of Good Conduct, agree terms in a written contract, and use the first month as a trial period. Here's each step.
1. Decide what you need
Write down the ages of your children, your working hours, whether you need cooking, cleaning and laundry too, and whether she will live in. This tells you whether you are looking for a nanny, a house help or a house manager, and whether live-in or live-out suits you.
2. Set a fair budget
From 1 May 2026 the minimum wage for a house help or nanny in Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru and Eldoret is KES 18,047.40 a month. Add the employer's share of NSSF and the Housing Levy. See house help salary in Kenya.
3. Shortlist candidates
You can go through a bureau, ask friends, or browse nanny profiles on Aunty Nyumbani, where you can compare experience, skills, expected pay and references before you pay anything. Shortlist three to five.
4. Interview properly
Meet in person, ideally with your children present for part of it. Use our list of nanny interview questions and watch how she relates to the children.
5. Check references and documents
Call at least two previous employers. Ask for her national ID and a recent Certificate of Good Conduct. Don't skip this step, even when someone comes recommended.
6. Put it in writing
Agree salary, pay day, hours, rest day, leave, duties and notice in a written contract. Here's what to include.
7. Use the first month well
Show her your routines, write down emergency numbers and check in daily. Our first-week checklist helps.
Quick answers
How long does it take to hire a nanny in Kenya?
With a clear brief you can shortlist and interview within a week. Allow extra time for reference calls and a Certificate of Good Conduct if she doesn't already have a recent one.
What documents should a nanny have?
A national ID, a recent Certificate of Good Conduct (police clearance) from the DCI, and contacts for previous employers as references.