Kenyatta supports US aid freeze, calls for African self-reliance

Former Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta has sparked debate by endorsing the recent suspension of US foreign aid, stating that Africa should focus on self-sufficiency rather than relying on external support. Speaking at the East Africa Region Global Health Security Summit, he argued that the US is not obligated to assist African countries and that this moment should be viewed as a wake-up call for the continent to prioritize its own resources. His comments come in the wake of President Trump's executive order to halt foreign aid for 90 days, which has raised concerns about the impact on countries like Kenya that depend on US assistance for critical health programs, particularly in combating HIV/AIDS. Kenyan officials, including Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing'oei, expressed alarm over the potential repercussions of the aid suspension but acknowledged it could encourage African nations to reduce dependency on foreign aid. The US has historically been a significant contributor to global health initiatives, and experts warn that the aid freeze could severely strain healthcare systems in recipient countries, affecting millions. Overall, opinions among Kenyans are mixed, with some supporting Kenyatta's stance while others criticize it as a post-office shift in perspective.