This archive report was first published on 1 July 2020.
On July 1, 2020, the US Agency for International Development (USAID) announced a significant contribution to Kenya's COVID-19 response efforts. The agency has allocated $50 million, equivalent to approximately Sh5.32 billion, to support the country's response and recovery efforts.
According to U.S. Ambassador to Kenya Kyle L. McCarter, the funds will be used to address the compound challenges posed by COVID-19, flooding, and locusts. The ambassador emphasized the importance of ensuring resources reach the counties and communities, as they are Kenya's greatest asset in overcoming these challenges.
McCarter stated, '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. We are focusing on ensuring resources get to the counties and communities, because Kenya's communities are Kenya's greatest asset in overcoming these challenges.'
Of the allocated funds, Sh1.5 billion will be dedicated to strengthening health and water systems, ensuring effective communication, and community engagement to promote public health. Another Sh2.8 billion will be used to support small businesses, maintain an operational food supply chain, and ensure short-term emergency food as well as longer-term food security.
Nearly Sh610 million will be allocated to ensure children continue learning through distance learning, young people gain jobs in emerging areas, and citizen-responsive governance helps mitigate possible conflict, violence, and civil unrest.
USAID Mission Director Mark Meassick noted that U.S. funds directly benefit Kenyans, and the agency partners with the Kenyan government, NGOs, civil society, and local organizations to support the Kenyan people. Meassick emphasized that the U.S. requires its partners to adhere to rigorous reporting requirements and standards.
