USAID closure signals decline in US role as leader, development partner

As an American-Kenyan, I am deeply troubled by the recent closure of USAID offices around the world, including here in Kenya. This decision, abrupt and seemingly without a clear long-term vision, raises serious questions about the future of US-Kenya relations and America's commitment to global development and partnership.

For decades, USAID has been a cornerstone of US-Kenya relations, serving as a vital partner in Kenya's development journey. From combating HIV/Aids and malaria to supporting economic growth and promoting democratic governance, USAID has touched the lives of millions of Kenyans.

This impact extends across East Africa, which, according to a recent analysis by the Institute for Security Studies, received over 40 per cent of USAID's funding to Africa in 2023, highlighting the agency's crucial role in regional development.

The consequences of USAID's withdrawal are already being felt. It is estimated that tens of thousands of dedicated Kenyans employed in USAID-funded projects now face an uncertain future. Beyond the job losses, the closure threatens to unravel years of progress in critical sectors, jeopardising the health, education, and economic well-being of countless Kenyans.

Amidst this uncertainty, it is encouraging to see the Kenyan Ministry of Health taking proactive steps to mitigate the impact. Their assurances regarding sufficient ARV stocks and contingency plans demonstrate a commitment to safeguarding public health.

However, the closure of USAID extends far beyond Kenya's borders. It represents a global retreat, signaling a decline in America's role as a leader and reliable partner in development. This retreat creates a vacuum that other nations, with potentially less benevolent agendas, may be eager to fill.

Furthermore, this decision raises fundamental questions about America's commitment to its own stated values. How does abandoning vital health programmes, jeopardising economic progress, and undermining democratic institutions align with the principles of compassion, partnership, and global leadership that America claims to uphold?

While acknowledging that there have been calls for reform and improvement within USAID, the abrupt closure of offices and the termination of programmes is not the answer. Ripping off the band-aid, so to speak, leaves deep wounds and undermines the trust built over decades of partnership.

A more constructive approach would involve open dialogue, collaboration, and a phased transition that allows for the strengthening of local capacity and the development of sustainable solutions.

This is not the time for isolationism or short-sighted policies. The challenges facing Kenya, and indeed the entire world, require collaborative solutions and a renewed commitment to multilateralism. The closure of USAID is a step in the wrong direction, a step that will have lasting consequences for Kenya, the US, and the global community. It undermines the very foundation of collaborative solutions and a shared commitment to a more just and prosperous world.

To the dedicated staff of USAID and their funded projects, both Kenyan and American, who have worked tirelessly over the years to improve the lives of others and contribute to a brighter future, I offer my heartfelt gratitude. Asanteni sana kwa kazi yenu nzuri. Tutaonana na kwaheri.

I sympathise deeply with all facing the brunt of this decision. Americans in Kenya are actively engaging with our representatives in the US government to share our concerns and advocate for a reassessment of this policy.

We believe that a strong US-Kenya partnership, built on mutual respect and shared goals, is essential for the prosperity and well-being of both our nations, and that America's continued engagement in global development is crucial for a more stable and prosperous world.