Thousands of Kenyan employees working with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) have been sent home following a directive that has disrupted the US-funded programs globally.
The Kenyan employees are also facing the reality of not receiving their January salaries.
This move follows a sweeping executive order by former President Donald Trump, which imposed a 90-day freeze on most foreign assistance disbursed through the State Department
According to an anonymous source who has spoken to The Kenya Times, USAID operations have been paralysed and salaries that had not been processed by the issuing of the January 24, notice may not be released.
Also Read: USAID to Suspend Projects in Kenya and East Africa After Trump Order
When Will the Layoffs Begin
Further, some organisations have already initiated plans to issue layoff notices to employees by February 2025.
The biggest worry of organizations today is whether they will be able to pay operational bills including rent, and electricity bills as the 90-day notice period elapses.
Moreover, the disruption of the supply of lifesaving drugs for HIV, malaria and TB as well as medical supplies for newborn babies, in countries supported by USAID is an even bigger concern.
Organisations working with key populations and the LGBTQ community in Kenya fear they may be the first to be kicked out.
Also Read: USAID Launched $100M Investment to Enhance Water, Sanitation and Hygiene
USAID Begins Global Layoffs
At least 56 senior officials within USAID were placed on leave on Monday, January 27. Additionally, several hundred contractors working in Washington and other locations were also laid off.
Consequently, several US-funded humanitarian, development, and security programs around the world have either halted or are preparing to cease operations.
Also, Aid organizations are unable to pay staff due to the funding freeze, are laying off hundreds of employees.
An internal USAID memo obtained by The Associated Press revealed that new acting administrator Jason Gray had found evidence of actions within USAID aimed at circumventing the President’s Executive Orders and the wishes of the American public.
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