USAID freeze: Over 500 community workers protest in Ruaraka over unpaid salaries

More than 500 community workers from the Redeemed Integrated Development Agency (RIDA), implementing projects under World Vision, are up in arms over unpaid December 2024 and January 2025 salaries.

The workers from the Baba Dogo area of Ruaraka held demonstrations on Friday, accusing the management of taking them in circles whenever they seek their dues.

RIDA, which relied on donor funding from USAID, suspended all project activities on January 27 following a memo issued to staff after the U.S. government froze the funds.

The protesters, who serve under RIDA’s projects implemented by World Vision, claim they have not received their dues for December and January.

"Tulipata habari kwamba Trump anasimamisha mradi. We were called for a meeting and were promised we would be paid…" Mary Adhiambo, a worker, said.

RIDA is among the many organizations impacted by U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision to freeze USAID donations to Africa, which has hit several community-driven initiatives hard.

A memo dated January 27, 2025, from World Vision—the agency overseeing RIDA projects—ordered the immediate suspension of all project activities.

According to the directive, only expenses incurred up to January 24 would be reimbursed. However, the workers say they continued their duties until the end of January without compensation.

"We have been frustrated so much. They should pay us," said Elizabeth Ingaga.

Linus Agweli added: "Nina uhakika pesa iko. Tumefanya kazi hadi wa leo. Order za Trump zinasema tulipwe hadi 24th."

The suspension has left 400 mentors, 390 facilitators, and 67 permanent staff in financial limbo. Mentors and facilitators, who relied on a monthly stipend of Ksh.10,000, are bearing the brunt of the funding freeze.

"I'm a single mother na hiyo pesa itanisaidia kulipa school fees…" Mary Adhiambo lamented.

RIDA’s management has denied accusations of withholding payments, asserting that they are merely following World Vision’s directives.

RIDA board chairman, Rev. Gideon Nzioki, stated that while the funds are available, no transactions can be processed until further notice. But the workers aren’t convinced.

"Tumekuwa tukipewa promises after promises…" added Mary Adhiambo.

For now, they’ve been asked to wait out the 90-day suspension, clinging to hope as they face an uncertain future.