Leaders in Trans Nzoia County have criticized the Agricultural Development Corporation (ADC) over poor payment of its workers and challenged the corporation to pay farmers their salaries without subjecting them to unnecessary hard conditions.
In Kitale, MP for Saboti David Lazaro said the ADC hasn’t been able to fulfil its noble obligation of paying the workers, thus confining them to a tough life environment. Lazaro said the inability of the corporation to pay its workers well has made it hard for some of them to provide basic amenities for their families and has even led to socio-economic issues.
The legislator said he is perturbed by some allegations emanating from workers, indicating that they are given maize and meat as payment, instead of salaries. The MP’s remarks came after complaints by some workers led by Peter Waliaula.
“We are paid poorly despite having worked for the corporation for long, the firm normally doesn’t listen to our cries, considering the fact that we haven’t been paid our salaries in full,” said waliaula.
The workers said the corporation has led them on a tough path, because their families are feeling the strain, with school fees payment, sufficient food, and dependable shelter. This has even led to an increase in school dropouts given parents can’t provide adequately what is needed. He said due to the fact that finding good houses and shelter is rare with their little financial capability, families are forced to spend their time together in small, crammed houses.
Lazaro promised to take their grievances to the national assembly, and that they will discuss their salary dispute, and that he will also take the matter to President Uhuru Kenyatta for immediate action to be taken. He said that the allegations will be acted upon before the president’s visit to the County scheduled for next year where he will preside over some development projects within the County.
The sentiments were echoed by Trans Nzoia County Senator Henry Ole Ndiema who wanted ADC to pay its workers immediately because the delays have led to tougher living standards for them.Keiyo MCA Emmanuel Waswa also chipped in, as he criticized the corporation, adding that a strike will be organized if they don’t pay the workers. He urged all leaders from the County to combine their efforts and fight for the rights of ADC Workers.
