Tensions are escalating in Nairobi as officials from the Nairobi City County Workers Union demand the immediate confirmation of the “Green Army Team” and payment of pending salaries, warning of a county-wide strike if their grievances are not addressed. The looming strike threatens to paralyse essential services across the Kenyan capital, underscoring chronic issues in the city’s labour relations and financial management.
The “Green Army Team” is a flagship initiative by Governor Johnson Sakaja aimed at enhancing the city’s cleanliness and environmental sustainability. It aligns with his broader vision of transforming Nairobi into a “Green City in the Sun,” a nickname that celebrates the city’s natural beauty and favourable climate. The team plays a vital role in waste management and environmental maintenance, services critical to urban health and functionality. What we are hearing is that there is a scheme to disenfranchise them and replace them with another team in those positions,” claimed Calvince Okello, the Secretary City Branch.
However, the workers’ union alleges that despite their contributions, members of the Green Army have not been formally confirmed into their roles nor paid their dues. This demand comes amid a long history of labor unrest in Nairobi County, including a major strike in 2022 over KSh 560 million in unpaid salaries and unremitted statutory deductions. Such disputes highlight enduring challenges in the county’s fiscal discipline and workforce management. “That has been the nature if this administration, we try to seek information, we try to engage in dialogue, but they choose to ignore.” Stated Calvince Okello, Secretary, City Branch.
Governor Sakaja, who took office in August 2022, has faced a rocky tenure. Although the High Court dismissed a petition questioning the authenticity of his academic credentials due to insufficient evidence, doubts about his qualifications continue to dog his administration. Coupled with persistent labor grievances, these issues have weakened public confidence in his leadership.
The Kenya County Government Workers Union (KCGWU), known for its assertive stance on workers’ rights, has been instrumental in negotiating better conditions for county employees. Most recently, it secured a 15% salary increase for its members after protracted discussions. Now, the union is taking an uncompromising position, stating that failure to confirm Green Army workers and pay all pending salaries will trigger industrial action. “If this administration doesn’t come out clearly to confirm these employees within seven days, the union will call them to parade and strike until this issue is resolved. Calvins added.
If the strike proceeds, Nairobi could face widespread disruption in critical services such as waste collection, public sanitation, and health facility operations. Given the city’s status as Kenya’s political and economic nerve center — and a major East African hub — the ripple effects could be substantial, impacting everything from tourism to business operations and public health.
This standoff also reflects deeper structural issues within Kenya’s devolved system of governance. County governments often grapple with inadequate funding, delayed disbursements, and poor financial accountability. These systemic shortcomings not only hinder service delivery but also strain labor relations, leading to recurring unrest.
As tensions mount, the urgency for transparent financial management and responsible leadership in Nairobi County has never been greater. Ensuring timely salary payments and formal employment confirmations is not just a labor issue — it is essential for sustaining public trust, service continuity, and economic stability. The county must act swiftly to avert a full-blown crisis that could once again expose the fragility of Kenya’s devolved governance framework.
