Freedom of religion: can a school or employer force you to worship?
Constitution of Kenya, 2010 · sources read 4 Oct 2026
Everyone has freedom of religion and belief, including the right to worship and observe a day of worship. No one may be denied access to a school, job or facility because of their religion, or be forced to do anything against their belief or religion.
- Where
- National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC) offices or online; the High Court
Steps
- If you are treated unfairly because of your religion, complain to the National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC): at any NGEC office in writing or by speaking, by email to legal@ngeckenya.org, online or by post.
- You can go to the High Court claiming your freedom of religion has been denied, violated or is threatened.
Watch out
- This freedom can be limited by law, but only as far as is reasonable and justifiable in an open and democratic society.
- NGEC will not take a complaint that is already before a court or tribunal.
- A school cannot refuse to admit a child because of the child's religion: the Basic Education Act bars discrimination in admission on any ground, including religion.
Who this covers
- Every person, whatever their religion or belief, or none.
- This covers worship, practice, teaching and keeping a day of worship, alone or with others, in public or private.
- Schools, employers and other institutions may not deny you access, a job or a facility because of your religion.
- No one may force you to take part in any act against your belief or religion.
- Employees and job applicants: an employer may not discriminate against or harass you because of your religion.
Official sources (4)
- Constitution of Kenya, 2010 new.kenyalaw.org · read 2 Oct 2026
- File a Complaint ngeckenya.org · read 2 Oct 2026
- Employment Act (Cap. 226), consolidated new.kenyalaw.org · read 4 Oct 2026
- Basic Education Act (Cap. 211, formerly No. 14 of 2013) new.kenyalaw.org · read 4 Oct 2026