Kenyan Journalists Among 1,300 Suspended as VOA Halts Operations After Budget Cuts

The Voice of America (VOA) has suspended over 1,300 employees following significant budget cuts.

The suspensions, effective immediately, follow budget reductions directed at the US news organizations that focus on providing news to countries with restricted media environments. The financial constraints stem from an executive order issued by US President Donald Trump, which mandate substantial budgetary cuts across several federal agencies, including the US Agency for Global Media (USAGM), VOA's parent entity.

The order, intended to reduce governmental expenditure by targeting what it termed "unnecessary" elements of the federal structure, has led to significant operational impacts for VOA. VOA Director Michael Abramowitz has voiced strong concerns over the decision, labeling it a historic setback for the broadcaster, which has been operational since 1942. The suspension halts operations for an organization that reaches millions of viewers weekly in multiple languages.

Among those affected are journalists from regions like Kenya, including Swahili-language correspondent Vincent Makori and English-to-Africa program anchor Esther Githui Ewart. The cuts extend beyond VOA to Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, a crucial news source in politically volatile regions like Eastern Europe, Russia, and Ukraine. Media experts warn that these budget reductions could curtail access to credible news in areas governed by authoritarian regimes, where independent journalism serves as a vital lifeline for accurate information.

Founded during World War II to counter Nazi propaganda, VOA has evolved into a global broadcaster that promotes understanding through independent reporting. Staff members have been instructed to surrender official badges and credentials, and access to internal systems and facilities has been revoked. Employees are on administrative leave but must remain available to resume duties with short notice.