This archive report was first published on 1 July 2020.
On July 1, 2020, the United States government announced a grant of Ksh5.3 billion (USD50 million) to support Kenya's COVID-19 response and recovery efforts.
The grant, facilitated by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), aims to tackle the immediate and longer-term challenges posed by COVID-19, including strengthening health and water systems, supporting small businesses, and facilitating education and job opportunities.
According to USAID, the grant will be used to strengthen health and water systems, ensuring effective communication and community engagement to keep Kenyans healthy. This includes providing personal protective equipment (PPE) to healthcare workers and diagnostic and capacity-building support to meet the increasing testing demand.
USAID has also earmarked funds to support Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), ensuring small businesses can stay afloat, the agribusiness sector can maintain an operational food supply chain, and short-term emergency food as well as longer-term food security.
Furthermore, the grant will facilitate Kenyan learners to continue with their education via distance learning, and provide opportunities for young people to gain jobs in emerging areas, and bolster citizen-responsive governance to mitigate the possibility of civil unrest.
“U.S. funds directly benefit Kenyans. We partner with the Kenyan government, NGOs, the civil society and local organizations and institutions to support the Kenyan people. The U.S. requires our partners to adhere to rigorous reporting requirements and standards,” stated USAID Mission Director Mark Meassick.
