Kenyan Workers Allege Underpayment at US Consulate Construction Site in Milan

Kenyan workers employed on the construction of a new United States consulate in Milan have alleged underpayment and poor working conditions, prompting an investigation by Italian prosecutors.

The allegations concern a project valued at approximately KSh45.2 billion ($350 million). According to an investigation by the Associated Press, dozens of foreign workers, including several Kenyans, were paid significantly less than the amounts stated in their contracts.

Italian prosecutors have opened an inquiry into the claims, focusing on US-based contractor Caddell Construction, which is overseeing the project. Two company managers have been arrested as investigators examine employment records, contracts and pay documents to determine whether labour laws were violated.

Workers interviewed during the investigation described a substantial gap between their promised earnings and the wages they received. Contracts reportedly stated annual salaries of more than KSh3.7 million (€25,000), but some Kenyan employees said they took home about KSh74,725 (€500) per month after deductions for accommodation and food.

Others claimed their payslips showed monthly earnings of around KSh343,735 (€2,300), yet they did not receive the full amount. They alleged that deductions were not clearly explained and that payment arrangements lacked transparency.

Concerns have also been raised about working conditions. Workers said they were required to work ten-hour shifts, six days a week, under close supervision. Some alleged that requests for clarification about pay discrepancies were met with threats of dismissal or deportation.

One Kenyan electrician told The Independent: “Either you work, or you will be returned to your country. That’s the amount you are supposed to be paid.”

The US State Department has acknowledged the allegations and said it is cooperating with Italian authorities. Caddell Construction has also announced that it is conducting an internal review.

The Milan consulate is being built on a 10-acre site as part of a wider US programme to modernise diplomatic facilities around the world.