The United States has suspended 72 development projects across Kenya, including initiatives that have been crucial in providing employment and support to local communities.
This decision follows President Donald Trump’s move to pause foreign assistance for 90 days to assess whether ongoing programs align with his “America First” foreign policy.
Out of 83 active projects previously managed under the US Agency for International Development (USAID), only 11 will continue operating through 2026-2029.
These remaining projects will primarily focus on critical sectors such as health, including HIV/AIDS service delivery, tuberculosis (TB) prevention, and child protection programs like OVC (Orphans and Vulnerable Children) and DREAMS.
They aim to strengthen health supply chains, enhance TB diagnosis and treatment, and introduce new technologies to sustain previous progress.
Organizations benefiting from the continuation of these programs include health and academic institutions like the Mission for Essential Drugs and Supplies, Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH), Moi University College of Health Sciences, and NGOs such as AMREF Health Africa and St. John’s Community Centre (Pumwani).
However, the termination of 72 projects has left significant gaps in key areas.
These include educational programs focusing on literacy and higher education, trade reforms, agricultural and food systems improvements, water and sanitation, wildlife conservation, and environmental management.
Other areas affected include electoral governance, anti-fraud initiatives, social inclusion, gender equality monitoring, and disability advocacy.
The suspension has impacted local academic institutions like the University of Nairobi and Strathmore University, as well as government-linked organizations and civil society groups, including the National Council of Churches of Kenya and Kenya Wildlife Services.
This move by the US government has sparked concerns about the long-term impact on Kenya’s development efforts, particularly in sectors that have seen significant improvement due to these programs.
The decision to pause such initiatives comes at a time when many of these projects have become integral to community development and employment opportunities.
