This archive report was first published on 24 April 2020.
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to spread across Kenya, the government has announced plans to implement pay cuts for military officers and civil servants. The move, which comes into effect in April 2020, aims to mitigate the economic impact of the pandemic on the country.
According to a memo issued by the Kenya Defense Forces (KDF), officers of the rank of Lieutenant Colonel and above will take a 20% pay cut, while those holding the rank of Major will take a 10% cut. Private and Warrant Officers in rank one will contribute KSh 750 from their monthly pay.
Similarly, a circular issued by the Head of Public Service, Mr. Joseph Kinyua, to all Principal Secretaries and Chief Executives of various commissions, has asked all civil servants to take a pay cut. The pay cuts are expected to be in effect for three to six months, depending on the duration of the pandemic.
Unemployment levels are rising rapidly across the country, with the hotel and aviation industry being the worst-hit. Many employees in these sectors have been sent home, with a skeleton staff remaining who are forced to take pay cuts or unpaid leave.
