This archive report was first published on 11 August 2019.
Kenya's county governments are on the brink of paralysis, with about 20 counties facing possible work stoppages due to unpaid salaries.
According to the Kenya County Government Workers Union, only 23 counties have paid their workers, while four others have expressed willingness to clear outstanding dues by Tuesday.
The affected counties include Homabay, Nyeri, Murang'a, Laikipia, Taita Taveta, Isiolo, Marsabit, West Pokot, Baringo, Samburu, Kericho, Elgeyo Marakwet, Nakuru, Embu, Machakos, Kitui, Meru, Tharaka Nithi, Bungoma, and Kisumu.
The union's Secretary General, Hon. Roba Duba, pointed out that most county administrations have failed to demonstrate a commitment to pay their workers, citing Embu County as an example where the management is planning a benchmarking trip to Rwanda.
On the other hand, 23 counties have already paid their workers, including Nairobi, Migori, Makueni, Transnzoia, Kisii, Kakamega, Wajir, Nyamira, Nyandarua, Lamu, Kwale, Tana River, Garrisa, Mandera, Kajiado, Turkana, Nandi, Bomet, Vihiga, Narok, Mombasa, Siaya, and Kiambu.
The public sector union had issued a 7-day strike notice over the delayed payment of salaries, which they termed as a gross violation of workers' rights.
