Teachers in secondary schools and tertiary institutions in Busia District took their grievances to a district council sitting, protesting the alleged non-payment of their November and December salaries. Led by Mr. Samson Wanyama Wafula from Buwembe Secondary School, the teachers expressed frustration over the delayed salaries, affecting a significant number in the district.
As of July 2023, Busia District had 342 secondary school teachers and 82 in tertiary institutions. In November, 216 secondary school teachers and all tutors in tertiary institutions reported not receiving their pay.
Mr. Wafula highlighted that many teachers missed their November salaries, and all tutors were awaiting their December pay. He attributed the salary delays to issues within Busia District authorities, pointing out that teachers in other districts had already received their December salaries.
The teachers emphasized the financial strain during the festive season, urging urgent attention to address their concerns. During a district council session focusing on supplementary budgets and committee elections, the teachers stood in the gallery, capturing the attention of councillors and Speaker Malowa Kudedi.
District youth male councillor, Mr. Moses Kibedi, stressed the urgency of addressing the teachers’ salary concerns, proposing an adjournment for the executive to approve over Shs700m to facilitate timely payments.
Despite the councillors advocating an adjournment, District Chairman Mr. Stephen Wasike Mugeni resisted, stating that the allocated funds were earmarked for health department staff recruitment. This led to disagreements among councillors, with some accusing Mr. Mugeni of insensitivity to the teachers’ plight.
Mr. Felix Alex Majeme, the Busia District chief administrative officer, declined to comment on the matter. Teachers affected by the salary delays, such as Mr. Charles Mungala and Mr. Gerald Musisi, voiced their challenges, including eviction threats and difficulties affording basic necessities.
