Kenya is set to feel the impact of a major policy shift after United States President Donald Trump signed an executive order withdrawing American support from 66 international organisations, some of which operate or support programmes in the country.
The directive, signed on Wednesday, January 7, followed a review by the US administration on participation and funding of global agencies. Several of the affected organisations focus on climate change, labour, migration, gender equality, education and security.
Among them is UN-Habitat, which is headquartered in Nairobi and plays a key role in urban planning, affordable housing and sustainable development. The US also withdrew support from UN Women, which backs programmes addressing gender-based violence and women’s empowerment in Kenya.
Funding was also halted for Education Cannot Wait and the UN Population Fund (UNFPA), both of which support education, reproductive health and youth programmes. Other affected bodies include climate, energy and counterterrorism organisations that have supported Kenya’s development and security efforts.
President Trump said the decision was in line with US interests, directing all departments to immediately implement the withdrawals.
