This archive report was first published on 1 July 2020.
On July 1, 2020, the US announced a significant boost to Kenya's fight against Covid-19, committing Sh5 billion to support the country's health sector and economic recovery.
The support, provided through the US Agency for International Development (USAID), aims to address the immediate and longer-term challenges posed by the virus, including ensuring resources reach local communities and counties.
US Ambassador to Kenya Kyle McCarter emphasized the importance of targeted support, stating, "The American people have always been generous to those in need around the world, and today Kenya is facing the compound challenges of Covid-19, flooding and locusts."
Of the Sh5 billion, nearly Sh610 million will be allocated to support distance learning, job creation in emerging areas, and citizen-responsive governance to mitigate potential conflict and unrest.
USAID Mission Director Mark Meassick highlighted the direct benefits of the funds, saying, "We partner with the Kenyan government, NGOs, civil society and local organisations and institutions to support the Kenyan people. The US requires our partners to adhere to rigorous reporting requirements and standards."
As of the announcement, over 1,600 health workers had been trained in 35 counties, and 272,000 Ministry of Health posters on Covid-19 prevention and symptoms had been printed and distributed across 23 high-risk counties.
