In a significant victory for worker's rights, Swahili Village DC, a popular fine-dining restaurant, has been ordered to pay Sh68.8 million to settle a 2023 wage theft lawsuit filed by the District of Columbia Attorney General's Office (OAG).

The lawsuit alleged that Swahili Village DC, owned by Kenyan entrepreneur Kevin Onyona, systematically underpaid its staff, primarily people of colour and young African immigrants.

The OAG accused the restaurant of violating multiple labour laws, including failing to pay minimum wage (some servers reportedly received as little as $5 per hour), neglecting to pay overtime, withholding tips, and denying legally mandated sick leave.

"This is unacceptable, and illegal," declared Attorney General Brian L. Schwalb.

"Employers who steal from their workers not only exploit them but gain an unfair advantage over law-abiding competitors."

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The settlement requires Swahili Village DC to pay over $260,000 directly to 72 former and current employees, effectively reimbursing stolen wages and damages.

A claims administrator will be appointed by the District to locate and contact all eligible workers for distribution.

"We don't ask 'will I be paid for all the hours I worked?'" shared Rowles Adams, a former bartender at Swahili Village who spoke out against the wage theft.

"This settlement sheds light on the widespread issue of wage theft, particularly in the restaurant industry," Adams continued, expressing his gratitude to the OAG for championing worker justice.

Additionally, Swahili Village DC must pay $197,614 in penalties to the District and implement changes to ensure compliance with all DC wage and hour laws for the next three years.

They will also be required to submit regular reports to the OAG documenting their adherence to these regulations.

This settlement serves as a powerful deterrent against wage theft in the District and a beacon of hope for workers who may be facing similar exploitation.