Thursday, February 13, 2025
=

EXCLUSIVE: USAID Employees in Kenya Sent Home with No Salaries

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.

USAID humanitarian officers distributing relief items.
USAID humanitarian officers distributing relief items. PHOTO/Daily News

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.

Follow our WhatsApp Channel and join our WhatsApp Group for real-time news updates

USAID humanitarian officers distributing relief items.
USAID humanitarian officers distributing relief items. PHOTO/USAID

Get real time update about this post categories directly on your device, subscribe now.

Joy Kwama

Mercy Joy Kwama is a News Reporter at The Kenya Times who is dedicated to the art of storytelling and truth-telling and changing narratives. She has covered diverse topics including politics, social justice, environmental issues, climate change, and entertainment. Mercy is particularly driven to amplify the voices of African communities and challenge the prevailing status quo. She is a graduate of Riara University with a degree in Communications and Multimedia Journalism and is well-equipped to navigate the complex landscape of news reporting. In her spare time, Mercy likes to pick up new skills including crocheting, gardening, dance, reading, and music. She can be reached at joy.kwama@thekenyatimes.com

Related Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

TRENDING NEWS