In early 2025, the suspension of USAID's PEPFAR-funded programs in Kenya raised concerns about the future of HIV/AIDS interventions. This development came on the heels of a reported decline in the country's HIV prevalence rate to 3.3% in 2024, according to the National Syndemic Diseases Control Council (NSDCC).
Since its establishment, on November 3, 1961, by the United States President, John F. Kennedy, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has supported over 100 countries globally. USAID has been a foundation of American foreign policy for decades, promoting global development and humanitarian efforts.
For many years, the agency reached out far and wide to tackle issues from global health to democratic movements. It has assisted in reducing child mortality rates, combating HIV/AIDS, and facilitating independent reporting in dictatorial governments.
USAID is an independent agency of the U.S. government that was formed by merging several existing aid programs including the International Cooperation Administration (ICA) as well as the Development Loan Fund (DLF).
Over time, USAID adapted to global challenges like pandemics and climate change. Its programs shifted from direct implementation to empowering governments, organizations, and local communities to lead their own development.
With USAID providing extensive aid to over a hundred countries, one might ask, "Where does the funding come from?" Well, the program's funding primarily comes from, annual appropriation approved by the U.S. Congress. There are also other sources, collaboration with other U.S. government agencies, and supplemental appropriation budgets that address specific crises like the war between Russia and Ukraine.
USAID has played a crucial role in promoting global health, especially in sub-Saharan Africa, including Kenya. Programs like the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) support individuals living with HIV/AIDS by providing free antiretroviral (ARV) medications, as well as free HIV testing and counselling services.
According to the National Syndemic and Diseases Control Council. HIV prevalence rate stood at 3.3% in 2024, this means that out of every 100 people in Kenya, approximately 3 are estimated to be living with HIV as compared to 5.6% in 2014. It shows a significant improvement over the past decade.
However, recent policy changes by the current U.S. administration have led to the program's suspension, with officials citing concerns over its efficacy and financial management. It also conflicts with Donald Trump’s “America first” agenda. Suspending the program poses a threat to vulnerable groups that depend on it, particularly elderly individuals living with HIV/AIDS and those with disabilities. Additionally, the shutdown will result in the loss of over 10,000 jobs.
The impact of the stop-work order has been felt in many parts of the country, particularly in the health sector, where USAID workers have been placed on unpaid leave. Other sectors, from agriculture to youth empowerment, have also experienced the effects, leading to widespread anxiety across the nation.
The program's suspension sparked mixed reactions. Former President Uhuru Kenyatta called on the government to view it as a wake-up call to better utilize domestic resources. In contrast, health experts raised alarms about the likely detrimental effects on vulnerable groups that depend on the program for support.
The government has asked citizens to stay calm, declaring that Kenya started its shift to alternative funding for HIV management in December 2024. Health Cabinet Secretary Deborah Mlongo Barasa notes that the government is exploring funding from different sectors, with a focus on domestic funding following the U.S. government's withdrawal from the WHO and its halt on HIV-related assistance. These initiatives seek to create a solid path forward for health interventions.
Comentários